Der
Rittmeister Militaria, LLC. Imperial German Merchandise Page 20: Imperial German Royalty & Nobility:
Personality Items, Swords & Daggers, Stickpins, Signed Photos and Documents,
Memorabilia, etc., Updated 1 July 2009. Contact us at: 
rittmeister@earthlink.net
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AND
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One of the most
interesting and rewarding areas of collecting is finding
items directly-related to the Imperial German Royalty. We
take the great pleasure and pride in scouring all parts of
Germany to locate these rare treasures.
From uniforms to
shoulder boards, edged weapons to headdress, and so on,
we constantly strive to bring you the finest items related to
the Kaisers, Kings, Princes, Grand Dukes, Dukes, etcetera, of
Imperial Germany
We also invite you
to look at our
Documents
Page Nr 2.
Many of these groupings contain signatures from the rulers
of the various kingdoms, duchies, etc. Enjoy looking through
our "virtual museum!"
Kingdom and
Empire - Prussia
Items Relating to
Kaiser Wilhelm II
20-173 PERSONAL SHAKO OF KAISER WILHELM II -
GENERALFELDMARSCHALL -
NAV
Y SEE-BATTALION - IN FULL PARADE
CONFIGURATION - COMPLETE WITH PARADE FEATHERS AND TWO STORAGE BOXES.
Today
we are offering perhaps the single most important artifact ever in the history
of Der Rittmeister Militaria. In our day we have offered many fine articles of headdress, tunics,
etc. from Germany’s royals. We even have offered several schirmutzen that once
belonged to Kaiser Wilhelm II, but never anything quite like this! Today we
are pleased and honored to present his Majesty Kaiser Wilhelm II’s original
officer’s shako for the See-Battalion.
As you are well aware, the See-Battalion was attached to the
Kaiserliche Marine, much as the U.S. Marine Corps is to the U. S. Navy and
the British Royal Marines are to Her Majesty’s Royal Navy. The See-Battalion provided shipboard security for the German Imperial Navy’s
larger vessels. They were also charged with providing security at many German
embassies and consulates around the world. In China one entire battalion (Battalion
Nr 3) was assigned as the embassy’s security force, and as
additional military muscle to bolster the area’s other colonial troops. Our
premiere offering today is the complete ensemble for the Kaiser’s See-Battalion shako.
The shako’s body consists of superb felt for the body portion, and fine
leather for its top, as well as the
front and rear visors. The
See-Battalion's wappen is absolutely magnificent. It features an
eagle with outspread wings. In the middle of its chest is a smaller
Hohenzollern Eagle. Clasped in the larger eagle’s talons is an anchor base.
Over its head sits a Hohenzollern Crown, with a royal stole streaming out from
either side. The wappen is exquisitely frosted. All of its fire gilding
remains intact. The shako boasts a glorious pair of chin scales. The final
exterior detail is its field badge, handsomely crafted of silver bullion. It
sports a red center signifying the Reich. The exterior’s condition is
excellent. I believe most would agree with me. It is in mint-minus condition.
The back interior visor is
green leather. The sweatband is ultra soft doeskin. It exhibits an extra band
of stitching that one only sees on top-of-the-line headdress. (Naturally, one
expects this from the Kaiser!) Its liner is made from superior quality silk.
It has a much tighter weave than that one normally sees. Again, this was an
expensive helmet option, but if you were the Kaiser, expenses be damned!
Wilhelm II’s gold Cypher is embossed on the silk liner. The entire interior is
in excellent condition, with just a hint of gentle wear. In all likelihood, it
was worn very rarely during Wilhelm II’s reign (1888 to 1918).
Some manufacturer’s production markings seem to appear under the liner, as
well as the size, "55 1/4." This is around the average hat/helmet size
for the period.
Now let us turn to the helmet’s featherbush. The cock feathers are white, red, and
black, representing Germany’s national colors. It differs from a Prussian
general’s feathers, which are just black and white. This is because the
See-Battalion was considered a national force rather than merely a
Prussian unit. (The same held true for the Kaiserliche Marine). The
very full cock feathers are attached to a special trichter, which slides in behind
the field badge. The entire shako takes on an entirely different look when the
parade feathers are attached. Accompanying the parade feathers is an officer’s
regular horsehair bush. It is a very full and beautifully-shaped. Should you
to want to attach the bush, you will need to dismount the feathers. This is
because only one of these very special trichters is included. Personally, I cannot imagine why
one would wish to do so. The bush comes with the ensemble, however. It will be
yours to do with as you wish when you purchase it. Another part of the
ensemble is the shako’s and parade feathers’ storage boxes. The shako’s box measures 9" x 11" x 8." The box front
displays a special-added label that reads "Seebattalion." Immediately
above the unit designation appears Wilhelm II’s similarly Hohenzollern-Crowned
Cypher. The box is lined in white silk. The shako rests inside the box, along
with the field badge and the extra, horsehair parade bush. Originally, a
leather strap secured the top to the box. Only a remnant of the leather strap
remains.
The last piece of the presentation is a special, cylindrically-shaped case,
which houses the parade feathers when they are not in use. I have seen similar
cases in the past, housing generals’ trichters and feathers. Such cases always
are far larger and more ornate than boxes holding lower officers’ horsehair
trichter
s. This one has openings on both ends to facilitate removing and
replacing the bush. The ends are appropriately marked "Oben (top)" and "Unten (bottom)." The box stands 11 3/4" high. It is 6
3/4" in diameter at the
base. Its side displays a similar label to that seen on the shako’s box,
identifying it as Kaiser Wilhelm II’s property.
Again, we are extremely excited to share this with you. One often hears
the term "museum piece" or "museum grade." This certainly applies here. Any
collector fortunate enough to have this in his collection (as I do now), is
the caretaker of a truly historic piece. I know many of you will flinch at its
price. It is expensive, of that we have no doubt. In comparison, two or
three years ago I was offered one of Wilhelm II’s feldgrau tunics and an
army general
pickelhaube. The price to me would have been €50,000.
At today’s prices that would equal $74,000+! [Please allow sufficient time for
the attached photographs to load. I believe you will find the wait well worth
it]!
$42,495.00
(Click here for more images)
26-16 PRESENTATION BRONZE OF KAISER WILHELM II
IN THE UNIFORM OF A
GROßADMIRAL TO ADMIRAL FREDERICK von INGENOHL.
Bronzes of Kais
er Wilhelm II are extremely popular with
collectors. These bronzes come in a variety of sizes and
different quality levels. Even modest households in Germany
usually displayed a small bronze of the Kaiser. At the other
extreme were the massive pieces commissioned by the Kaiser
himself. They were produced and given as gifts for special
services to the Kaiser and the Reich. These often ranged to
20" in height and exceeded 20+ lbs.! They were never
produced in great quantities. Most of them featured the
Kaiser wearing an army regimental uniform. One should
remember, however, that Wilhelm II was a Navy man at heart.
He really savored his role as Großadmiral in the Kaiserliche
Marine. As with ANY area of collecting,
we ALWAYS find that naval items are fewer in number. It does
not matter whether it is wound badges, qualification badges,
uniforms, or whatever; navy items are ALWAYS harder to find. Our featured
item brings this scarcity home with a resounding bang. As rare as are these
presentation bronzes of Wilhelm II, the number of them with a naval theme is
minuscule. We recently readjusted our focus in this area of merchandise.
Although we have offered busts of German royalty and military commanders for
years, now we are searching for rarer pieces. I do not use the term "museum piece"
or "museum quality" lightly. Applying either in
this case does not represent an overstatement. What we offer today is a massive,
beautifully constructed, special presentation bronze of
Kaiser Wilhelm II in the uniform of a Großadmiral. That
alone makes it a very rare piece. In addition, it was a
special presentation piece given by a grateful Kaiser to
Admiral Friederick von Ingenohl. Frederick von Ingenohl
(1857-1933) first joined the Imperial German Navy in 1874 at
the age of seventeen. He served in many commands, then
ultimately was appointed to command the High Seas Fleet in
1913. He was, in fact, its commander at the outbreak of WW I.
Although aggressive by nature, Ingenohl was never able to
fully implement his plans for his fleet. This was due in part
to a lack of support from the Kaiser himself, who did not
want to risk his fleet, and from interference by the German
Admiralty. Alfred von Tirpitz was one of his biggest
opponents. After a whispering campaign to the Kaiser, von
Ingenohl was replaced in February 1915. This bronze was presented to von
Ingenohl in April 1914 on the occasion of his 40th
year of service in the Navy. This imposing bronze measures
some 20" in height and weighs more than twenty-two lbs.
The bronze has a marble base (dark green and white) and a
matching circular extension to which the waist-high likeness
of 
Kaiser Wilhelm II is attached. This stunningly beautiful
likeness shows the Kaiser in the full-dress uniform of a
Großadmiral. Wilhelm is wearing his fore and aft cap and
grasps a telescope in his right hand. Attached to the
circular marble extension is a dedication plaque, which
states "Meinem leiben Ingenohl 12
April 1914 Wilhelm." Topping this
beautifully patinaed plaque is a superb Hohenzollern Crown.
This massive bronze was the work of the noted sculptor, Otto
Rohloff. Rohloff’s signature appears on the reverse of
the bronze. I am so excited to present this naval-themed
bronze to you today. I hope that each of you will read this
description in detail and look closely at the attached
photographs. All of the items we offer have history attached
to some degree or another. This is a slice of history at its
best, as a king acknowledges the contributions of his loyal
subject in a most effuse and generous manner.
$9,995.00
(Click here for more images)
20-224 FOUR ROYAL AUTOMOBILE
PENNANTS - KAISER WILHELM II’S HOUSEHOLD.
Over the years we have brought
you some unusual items associated with either Kaiser Wilhelm II or his
household. Today we are offering four automobile pennants (flags or standards)
from the Kaiser’s household auto detachment. During Kaiser Wilhelm II’s reign,
automobile transportation was still in its infancy. A horse drawn carriage
remained his preferred vehicle for certain special occasions, but Wilhelm II’s
affinity for motor cars increased the longer he sat on the throne. Then, as
now, a high-level official (particularly the head-of-state) displayed his
nation’s flag on his chauffeur-driven limousine’s bumper. These are exactly
the type of item with which we are tempting you today.
Allow me to share with you the story of how we obtained these pennants. On
15 August 1907, a young man Wilhelm G. joined the royal household
as one of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s chauffeurs. [I am not revealing the family name
for privacy reasons. A handwritten letter of provenance, written and attested
to on 15 February 1988 will be provided to the group’s buyer]. He remained in
the Kaiser’s service until November 1918, when Kaiser Wilhelm II abdicated his
throne (along with all of Germany’s other royals). Wilhelm G. found
himself unemployed when the Kaiser and Kaiserin left for the Netherlands to
live in exile at Haus (Huis) Doorn. As a token of appreciation for his loyalty, the Kaiser gave the four pennants to Wilhelm G.
as a gift. These standards remained in the family for seventy years. They
ultimately were sold in 1988 by Wilhelm G.’s son or daughter. The four
flags recently came into my hands. Their quality, as you can see, is quite
impressive. They can make a one-of-a-kind addition to your collection, and are
described as follows:
1) Pennant of the Kaiser’s Standard. In 1870-71 when Prussia’s König
Wilhelm I became Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany, a special standard (Kaiserstandarte) was created for him. Only three men ever used the flag: Kaiser Wilhelm I,
Kaiser Friedrich III, and Kaiser Wilhelm II. This special standard was always
seen with Kaiser Wilhelm II. It is common to see photographs of the Kaiser.
Very nearby you will see a Regiment der Garde du Corps trooper carrying
the Kaiserstandarte. Remember that the President of the United States
of America has a special flag, which plays a key part in all his appearances.
Our automobile Kaiserstandarte measures 16 1/4" x 17." It weighs
3.5 ounces, as
it is made of substantial, heavy cotton. It is two-sided. Its background is
yellow. Its center displays a black Iron Cross trimmed in white. Extending
down from the top arm of the Iron Cross is a multicolored Hohenzollern Crown.
Directly below the crown is a shield presenting a multicolored eagle. Coming
down from the Crown and encircling the eagle is a Black Eagle Collar. (The
latter was a very rare order that was conferred on every House of
Hohenzollern’s son). The word "Gott" appears on the Iron Cross’s 12
o‘cloc k arm. "Mit" appears on the 9 o’clock arm. "Uns" appears on the 3
o’clock arm, and 1870 shows up on the 6 o’clock arm. The standard’s final
fillip is the presence of a Hohenzollern Crown and three eagles on each of its
four corners. The pennant sports a total of four Hohenzollern Crowns and
twelve eagles.
As previously mentioned, the Kaiserstandarte is two-sided. One side has
a small moth hole that measures perhaps half an inch. On the other side in the
upper left corner is a horizontal slit. It measures 3" in length on the yellow
background, just above the red Hohenzollern Crown. From the horizontal slit, a
vertical slit measuring 1 1/4" extends down to the Hohenzollern Crown. This
standard is magnificent and very important, historically.
2)House of Hohenzollern Pennant/Flag. This pennant
represents the House of Hohenzollern. I am
not sure on what other occasions it
was used, but I imagine it was used visiting Burg Hohenzollern (located
within the Grand Duchy of Baden). The standard measures 14" x 16 1/4," and weighs
3.2
ounces. (It is not nearly as heavy as the Kaiserstandarte). It has a
white background. It bears the House of Hohenzollern’s multicolored
Coat-of-Arms, along with the German motto "Nichts Ohne Gott (Nothing
Without God)." This standard is in excellent condition. It shows only
minor soiling from its one-hundred-years of age.
3) Saxe-
Altenburg Pennant/Flag. This is a variation
of either Ernst I or Ernst II’s Ducal Standard from Saxe-Altenburg. The latter
was a relatively small Saxon Duchy, which fielded a single infantry regiment.
The standard measures 16 1/4" x 16," and weighs 3.2 ounces. It features alternating
black (five) and yellow (five) horizontal stripes. A green diagonal crenelated
stripe stretches from its upper left corner to its lower right corner. It
represents a crown (if the crown were cut, then rolled out flat). It is a
two-sided piece. Its colors are very vibrant. It is a very handsome and
decorative standard, in top condition.
4) Imperial Austrian (House of Hapsburg) Pennant/Flag.
This is a standard flown from a limousine
’s bumper when an Austrian royal
family member or other important Austrian official was present. The pennant
measures 14 3/4" x 16" and weighs 3.5 ounces. It sports a yellow background, with a
white, red, yellow, and black border around it. In the standard’s center is a
multicolored, double-headed Austrian (Hapsburg) Eagle, mounted on a single
body. Each Eagle’s head is crowned. In addition, a Hapsburg Crown appears
above the twin heads, complete with the flowing twin ribbons of its royal
stole. A kollar extends down across the Eagle’s chest. He is grasping a
sword and scepter in his right talons. He clutches an orb in his left.
The pennant is two-sided. Some staining or "bleeding" of
the black shows on one side. It is not as noticeable on the other. I can
detect no mothing or other damage.
This is a truly magnificent set of pennants. The Kaiserstandarte was
used solely to honor Kaiser Wilhelm II. The other three honored royals and
other important officials from Hohenzollern, Saxe-Altenburg and Austria. We
are thrilled that we can present them to you today.
$12,995.00
(Click here for more images)
20-133 PRESENTATION GIFT SET, CIGARETTE AND MATCH CASE IN
A DELUXE LEATHER CASE FROM KAISER WILHELM II TO A NAVAL OFFICER.
Nothing shows the grandeur and power of the German Empire more than the
gifts Kaiser Wilhelm II granted to his subjects and special acquaintances. I
have a special interest in royalty items. The various gifts Wilhelm II
bestowed "speak" to me. The incredible high quality and beauty of these
items take one’s breath away. These gifts include busts, swords, stickpins,
watches, rings, etc., etc.
Today we offer one of the most beautiful Kaiser gifts I have seen so far.
Our featured item was the top find of our recently-completed trip to
Germany. We start with its ravishing, red, Moroccan-leather-fitted case. It
measures 6 3/4" x 5 ½" x 1." An elegant, gold-trim design completely
encircles the case. The case’s center spotlights an applied, gilt,
Hohenzoller
n Crown. The Prussian royal stole flows down from the crown.
Inside, the case is lined with purple silk at the top. Embossed in gold
across the silk liner is the name of one of the Kaiser’s most important
house jewelers. It reads, "Gebr. Friedlander Hof-Juwaleltere Sr.
Maj. d. Kaisers Berlin W." A Hohenzollern Crown is also embossed
over this in gold.
[A word or two about Friedlander is in order here. The four
best-known royal house jewelers during the Imperial period were: Godet &
Sohn, Wagner & Sohn, Cy & Wagner, and Gebrüder Friedlander.
Godet and Wagner are perhaps a little better-known, as both
produced superb orders and decorations. The fact is, Friedlander was
equally as skilled in making orders and decorations. Interestingly,
awarded Ordens Pour le Mérite were most often produced by Wagner &
Sohn AND Gebrüder Friedlander! When it came to producing royal
gifts such as this one, Friedlander and Cy & Wagner were the
best in the field. All of the best such pieces I have seen were produced by
these two firms].
The bottom portion of the case also is covered in purple velvet. The base
section contains cutout resting places for the two "stars" of this royal
presentation. First is a superb silver cigarette case, with a textured
finish that looks like silvery bark. This case measures 3 ½" x 3" x ½." In
the upper left corner is an engraved cypher "W" with a Hohenzollern Crown.
The crown and cypher are highlighted with inlaid GOLD and rose-colored
diamonds! The rose-colored diamonds give the crown and cypher an interesting
cast. It is more subdued and elegant than white diamonds. I just love
holding this case under artificial light and turning it in my hands so the
light catches the highlights of these small diamonds. I have seen many fine
cigarette cases given as gifts by Wilhelm II, but I have never seen
one encrusted with diamonds, nor at this quality-level. The crown displays FIVE of the small, rose-colored diamonds, while the
Wilhelm Cypher has no less than THIRTY-SEVEN. The
button that opens the cigarette case is a cabochon sapphire.
As beautiful as is the exterior, the interior is equally stunning. The
interior is gilt, which offsets the silver exterior quite handsomely.
Sitting exactly where the cypher is on the obverse is another Wilhelm Cypher
on the left side of the case. Below that cypher is the inscription of the
award from "His Majesty the Kaiser an Honor Prize for a Tennis
Competition in 1901 to a Navy Oberleutnant zur See Robertson." (Ehrenpreis
Sr. Maj. des 
Kaisers im Tenniswettspiel gewonnen von Oberleutnant zur See
Robertson 1901). To the right are all the correct markings for
Friedlander and .900 silver. The two elastic restrainers for
cigarettes remain in place. The corresponding match case measures 1 ½"" x 2"
x 1/4." It features a smaller, rose-diamond-encrusted Wilhelm Cypher and
Hohenzollern Crown. The lid flips up in the same manner as a modern lighter.
A number of matches could be housed inside. At the bottom of the case is a
striking surface. I do not see markings for Friedlander on the
smaller case; however, I have no doubt it was produced in the same manner
and by the same firm as the cigarette case.
This, my dear readers is as sumptuous a cigarette case as was produced
during the thirty years that Kaiser Wilhelm II sat on Germany’s throne.
Unquestionably, it is the most important Kaiser gift that I have offered.
The fact it was presented to a naval officer does not hurt, either. [As an
aside, Oberleutnant zur See Robertson, in spite of what looks like a
non-German surname, was indeed a German naval officer. He went on to
become a Korvettenkapitän during WW I in an administrative post].
$7,495.00
(Click
here for more images)
20-134 TELESCOPE GIVEN AS GIFT BY KAISER WILHELM II.
This is a fascinating, nav
al-style telescope. It probably was a gift from
Kaiser Wilhelm to an admirer. It measures 13 3/4" unextended and 21 1/4"
extended. It is leather-wrapped. I do not see a silver content on the
exposed metal surfaces that are not leather wrapped. An interesting peg
arrangement uncovers the eye piece and protects it from exposure or damage
when the telescope is not in use. Also up near the eyepiece is a staggered
trim that looks like four coiled ropes, further advancing the telescope’s
naval motif. As previously mentioned, the leather wrapping provided a better
grip of the telescope when in use. On the barrel’s exposed metal is a
wonderful, jeweler-engraved cypher of Wilhelm II, along with a Hohenzollern
Crown. This cypher is quite large, measuring 2 3/4" x 1." Also, on the
barrel is an indication the telescope was made in France. It is entirely
possible it was purchased from German sources on one of the S. M.
Y. Hohenzollern’s voyages, when she was away from her home port.
At the front of the telescope is an interesting swing-away lens cover. An
item like this shows the wide range of items given by the Kaiser to
admirers, German and foreign dignitaries, and supporters. It is splendidly
made. [Its one current defect is that the lens are cloudy, making it
impossible to see through it (only light shows). The new owner may
disassemble the piece to clean the lens if he or she so desires]. It would make a fine addition to any royalty or naval collection.
$5,995.00
(Click
here for more images)
20-227 FRAMED AUTOGRAPHED PHOTOGRAPH - KAISER WILHELM II -
UNIFORM - REGIMENT der GARDE du CORPS.
Framed an
d autographed photographs of Kaiser Wilhelm II are always prized
among collectors. They also were highly sought-after by German citizens and
military figures during the Imperial German Period. You were considered
privileged to own the Kaiser’s autographed photograph, and you proudly
displayed it in your home or office. For the favored few, the Kaiser included
a special frame with the photograph. These combinations are VERY expensive IF
you can find one.
Today we are offering a delightful framed Kaiser Wilhelm II photograph. He is
mounted on his horse, wearing a visor cap. I cannot get a good enough view of
his uniform, but he is wearing cavalry boots, so I will presume he is wearing
a cavalry regiment’s uniform. On his right shoulder one can see the very
elaborate combination of shoulder board and aiguillette. He is in front
of what appears to be a regimental barracks. The photograph is boldly signed
in black ink and dated "1906 Berlin." With this information, he is
probably at one of the Berlin barracks for his Garde-Regiments.
The frame is made of wooden black lacquer. It measures 10 1/2" x 13 1/4." At
its top is a brass Hohenzollern Crown with flowing stole. A hanger is at the
top on the reverse. It can easily be attached to a wall. The photograph within
the frame measures 6 1/4" x 7 1/4." It makes a fine combination to grace any
collection.
$2,195.00
(Click here for more images)
20-213 FRAMED
PRESENTATION PORTRAIT - KAISER WILHELM II - GARDE DU CORPS UNIFORM AND
HELMET IN FULL PARADE CONFIGURATION. This is a
high-quality presentation portrait of Kaiser Wilhelm II in the Regiment der
Garde du Corps uniform. The Kaiser was
very generous with the gifts he lavished on people from all walks of life. No
gift was more treasured than his autographed, framed, photographic portraits.
The portraits he presented to royalty and nobility were extraordinarily
magnificent and luxurious. Our example, while quite splendid, was awarded to
someone of lower status.
The brown wood frame is most impressive. It measures 21 1/2" x 16 1/2." A
massive Hohenzollern Crown resting on laurel leaves shows above the cutout in
which the photograph appears. The bed of leaves extends 6 1/4." The Kaiser’s
photograph measures an impressive 10 1/4" x 7 1/2." He is wearing the
Regiment der Garde du Corps’ full-dress uniform. It includes the black
küraß that was only used at one
parade a year. [These breastplates originally were given as a special honor
during the Napoleonic Wars by the Czar of Russia. This meant Regiment der
Garde du Corps members had two breastplates to
wear during the year’s
parades]. In addition to his black küraß
(now on display at Haus Doorn in the Netherlands), the Kaiser is
wearing his GdC helmet with the parade eagle. Wilhelm II boldly signed
his name and title in black ink at the photograph’s bottom. It is a
magnificent depiction of the Kaiser, ready to mount on your wall.
$3,595.00
(Click here for more images)
20-206 ORIGINAL HAND COLORED PENCIL SKETCH - KAISER
WILHELM II.
This is an original pencil sketch
of Kaiser Wilhelm II. It has been hand colored to show the Kaiser’s general
officer’s leitzen and a neck order. The Kaiser is wearing a general
officer’s pickelhaube, with a canvas, foul-weather cover. The artist has
signed his name, "L. Hirschmann." It measures 12 1/4" x 8 1/4." It is attractively
done. The sketch is ready to frame and/or matte, or display as it is.
$750.00
(Click here for more images)
20-237 DELUXE ALBUM - FIFTY-FIRST BIRTHDAY - KAISER WILHELM II.
This is a
very high-quality album commemorating Kaiser Wilhelm II’s fifty-first (1910)
birthday. The album boasts a fine, white-leather cover. The front displays a
beautifully embossed Hohenzollern Crown and other assorted items, along with
Kaiser Wilhelm II’s Royal Cypher. The album measures 9 1/4" x 6." Each album leaf is
shielded by a protective glassine page. (I will photograph each page for the
pictures accompanying the description. However, to save space, I am not going to
describe each one). The first page shows a Garde Star in high-relief.
Numerous images of the Kaiser with reproduction signatures are included. It also
has a menu from the Kaiser’s gala dinner and musicale on 27 January 1910.
It is a captivating album.
$725.00
(Click here for more images)
20-97 FRAMED
OFFICER’S PATENT WITH THE SIGNATURE OF KAISER WILH
ELM
II.
The signature of Kaiser Wilhelm
II is always sought-after by collectors. His bold and
distinctive signature is handsome. When seen on a complete Urkunde
or Promotion Patent, it makes a wonderful way to have a
signature of Germany’s third and final Kaiser. Today, we
offer an attractively double-matted presentation of a
document bearing Wilhelm II’s signature. The document is
for a Hauptmann von Busse, who had served as a premier
(forerunner of an oberleutnant) lieutenant in Füsilier-Regiment
Prinz Heinrich von Preußen (Brandenburgisches) Nr 35.
This regiment was founded in 1813. Along with his promotion
he was posted to Grenadier-Regiment
König Friedrich III (2. Schlesisches) Nr 11,
which was founded in 1808. Doing a spot of research, I
believe I have found our man in the 1914-1918
Rangeliste. There was an Oberst Busse,
who served as the Adjutant of XX.
Armeekorps. He later retired from the
army as a Generalmajor a.D. The document is dated 15
November 1894 and bears the bold
signature of the Kaiser. We can see a slight smudge in his
signature’s ink. Alongside his signature we see the
large embossed coat-of-arms for the House of Hohenzollern.
The document appears in its own double matted
"window." A black and white lithograph of Wilhelm
II is displayed in a second "window." Below that is
a third window with the Kaiser’s name. The custom-framed
presentation (modern-day) measures 21 ½" x 19 ½."
As an historical aside, most Officer Promotion Patents for
the rank of hauptmann and above were personally signed by the Kaiser.
Those below that rank generally were not signed by him. They
were prepared in the same basic format, showing the
man’s name, unit, former rank and the rank to which he
was being promoted. This is a great way to display a
signature for Wilhelm II. All you need is a hook on the wall,
and you are ready to go! Extra shipping required on this item.
$850.00
(Click here for more
images)
20-121 HAND PAINTED,
FRAMED PORCELAIN OF KAISER WILHELM II.
This is a stunning, hand painted, porcelain image of Kaiser
Wilhelm II of the Regiments der Garde du
Corps dress uniform. The framed
presentation measures 12" x 9 ½," and the framed
image measures 9" x 6 ½." The frame is quite
ornate. The image shows the Kaiser in dress uniform (without
helmet or supravest).
He has on the dress shoulder boards of his rank and is
holding his sword. The colors of the porcelain are quite
vibrant. It is quite handsome. On his right sleeve is a small
chip. It could be corrected easily with a bit of attention.
It is not too noticeable, and blends in fairly well with the
rest of the tunic. It is not detractive, in my opinion. This
will look super on your wall! $795.00. .
(Click here for more images)
20-205 KPM 150TH ANNIVERSARY PLATE -
FEATURING KÖNIG FRIEDRICH DER GROßE - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION BOX.
Premiere porcelain firm KPM began serving Prussia’s royal
houses in 1763, when they provided King Friedrich the Great’s tableware.
The illustrious firm remains in business today, still producing some of the
finest porcelain pieces in the world. KPM observed their 150th
anniversary of service to the Prussian Crown (including six Kings and three
Kaisers) in 1913
by issuing this commemorative plate. The eight-sided plate is made of bisque
porcelain. It measures 7" x 6 3/4" x 3/4." The central motif gracing the plate’s
obverse is the high-relief images of Friedrich the Great and Kaiser Wilhelm
II. The words Konigliche Porzellan Manufaktur (KPM) Berlin are
featured around the plate’s edges. Below the two rulers’ images the years
1763 and 1913 appear, with the KPM logo in-between them.
The plate’s reverse displays all the KPM markings, along with the
dates.
The plate is housed in a deluxe leatherette presentation case measuring 8" x
7 1/2." The case is fitted to house the plate. It is lined with handsome, green,
silk material. It is an absolutely gorgeous display item that is nearly 100
years old itself!
$795.00
(Click here for more images)
20-200 KAISER WILHELM II’S PERSONAL TABLE SERVICE - KNIVES.
Today we are
offering three dinner knives from Kaiser Wilhelm II’s personal table
service. Each handle displays Prussia’s Hohenzollern Eagle, and Wilhelm II’s
royal cypher. All of the knives are manufacturer and .800
silver-hallmarked. The knives are quite large, measuring 10 3/4" x 1." All are in
good basic condition, but one has a less-than-desirable blade. The third
knife’s blade is rather ragged/jagged along its edge. Someone did not give
it the loving care the Kaiser’s memorabilia deserves. Its price is reduced
to reflect this flaw. Here is a fabulous opportunity to own a historical
piece (or pieces) used by European royalty. (unflawed)
$425.00 (flawed edge).
Only one of the knives remain available. This is the one with a flawed
blade. It is offered at a considerable discount over what the first two
knives were offered at.
(Click here for more images)
20-201 KAISER WILHELM II’S PERSONAL TABLE SERVICE -
DINNER FORKS. Today we are offering dinner
forks from Kaiser Wilhelm II’s personal table service. The forks are large,
measuring 9" x 1 1/8." Each handle displays Prussia’s Hohenzollern Eagle on one side, and Wilhelm II’s royal cypher on the other. Each fork is
hallmarked for the royal house jewelry firm, Gebrüder Friedlander.
The firm was famed for producing the finest silver items in Germany.
Tableware for nobility and royalty was their specialty. They were also known
for their high-quality orders and decorations, including PLM’s,
Knight’s Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Orders, Iron Crosses,
etc. Each fork is also hallmarked for .800 silver.
$525.00
each
Two of these forks has been spoken for. Only
ONE now remains.
(Click here for more images)
20-202 KAISER WILHELM II’S PERSONAL TABLE SERVICE - SALAD
FORKS. Today we are offering salad forks from
Kaiser Wilhelm II’s personal table service. The salad forks are a bit
smaller than the dinner forks, measuring 7 1/2" x 1." Each handle displays
Prussia’s Hohenzollern Eagle on one side,
and Wilhelm II’s royal cypher on the other. Each fork is hallmarked for the
royal house jewelry firm Gebrüder
Friedlander. The firm was famed for producing
the finest silver items in Germany. Tableware for nobility and royalty was
their specialty. They were also known for their high-quality orders and
decorations, including PLM’s, Knight’s Cross with Swords of the
Hohenzollern House Orders, Iron Crosses, etc. Each fork is also hallmarked
for .800 silver.
$525.00
each
Two
of these forks has been spoken for. Only ONE now remains.
(Click here for more images)
13-614 SHIP’S LAUNCH ENLISTED SAILOR’S RATING PATCH - S. M. Y. HOHENZOLLERN.
Without a doubt,
this is one of the rarest enlisted sailor’s rating patches you will ever see
from the Kaiserliche Marine. This patch was worn on the sleeves of
the specially selected sailors who manned Kaiser Wilhelm’s launch that
transported him to and from the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern. These sailors
had a large amount of public contact. They were seen by Germans and people
abroad as the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern journeyed. (Naturally, it was
mandatory that these sailors be among the crew’s best-looking specimens).
Like most Imperial German Naval rating patches, our example is oval-shaped
and measurers 4" x 3 1/4." The background is dark-blue. It features a yellow
frame, within which is a yellow and red Hohenzollern Crown. Below that we
see a Großadmiral’s yellow and red crossed batons.
Kaiser Wilhelm was the Kaiserliche Marine’s first Großadmiral. Thus,
the patch dates from 1901 onward. The
rating patch was worn on the right sleeve. It is in excellent condition.
This is the first patch of its type we have seen. We are very pleased to
present it to you.
$1,950.00
(Click here for more images)
13-636 ENLISTED
SAILOR’S SLEEVE RATING - ROYAL YACHT - S. M. Y. HOHENZOLLERN.
Being selected to serve on the Kaiser’s yacht, the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern, was a real honor. Whether one was an enlisted man, NCO, or officer, being
picked to serve on the Kaiser’s yacht was a plum assignment. It was quite
common for sailors in the Kaiserliche Marine to display rating patches
on their tunic/dress tunics’ sleeves. At a quick glance one could tell if the
man was a gunner, an engineer, a signalman, etc. The sailors selected for the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern were authorized to wear a rating patch proudly
proclaiming to the world that they personally served the Kaiser aboard his
opulent yacht. The patch is oval-shaped and measures 3 3/4" x 3." A
Hohenzollern Crown measuring 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" is embroidered in gold on a navy blue
background. In looking at this patch, we see two small holes to the Crown’s
left. In the patch’s upper left quadrant are
three more small holes caused by moths. This is a VERY rare rating patch. I
have only seen one other in the past. That one was still mounted to the man’s
tunic.
We would also direct you to another patch we have available. It is more
elaborate and larger. Once again, it is for men who served aboard the S. M.
Y. Hohenzollern. It was for the boat crew members who rowed him to other
ships or back to land. Unquestionably, these were the TWO rarest rating patches in the Kaiserliche
Marine.
$495.00
(Click here for more images)
20-217 DELUXE COMMEMORATIVE 78 RECORD
SET - 25th ANNIVERSARY - KAISER WILHELM II’S ASCENSION -THRONE.
This is a fascinating piece of memorabilia. It
is a 78 rpm record issued to commemorate Kaiser Wilhelm II’s 25th
anniversary of his ascension to Germany’s throne. It comes encased in its own
highly-decorated cardboard container, which is still totally intact 95 years
after it was released! The record is probably made of glass or wax, rather
than the vinyl of the later 20th Century (we are not 100% sure of
its composition). Its surface is decorated with a high-relief portrait of
Wilhelm II in the center of the album. The following words are printed (again
in high-relief) around the album’s edge: "Zur
Erinnerung an das Funfundzanzigjährige Regierungs-Jubiläum Seiner Majestat des
Kaisers und Königs Wilhelm II - 1888-1913. (In Remembrance of the
25-year-Reign-Jubilee of Our Majesty of Kaisers and Kings Wilhelm 2nd
)." These same words encircle the cover of
cardboard container. In the cover’s center is a framed picture of Kaiser
Wilhelm II. A Hohenzollern Crown sits high above his portrait, and elaborate
curtains swag down from it to drape dramatically on either side of the
Kaiser’s picture. A small label below the picture announces "Grammophon-Orchester.
M 040749 Jubel - Ouverture von C. M. Weber." The latter is the music
selection on the recording.
The box is 12" in diameter and approximately 1" high. Someone has taped it
together in the past. A removable, protective cardboard liner is still present
inside. Another insert, this one made of metal, sits in the case’s lower half
to help further protect the fragile recording. The recording’s non-decorative
side displays a conventional record label, complete with the graphic of the
dog listening to a gramophone. The recording information is again listed:
composer, composition, recording number, etc., as well as more salutations to
the Kaiser. This is a remarkable piece of Kaiserzeit memorabilia, in extremely
good condition!
$1,150.00
(Click here for more images)
20-215 METAL BUILDING PLAQUE -
HOHENZOLLERN EAGLE.
This is a spectacular metal
plaque that was affixed to a building front. It measures 9 3/4" in diameter,
and weighs 2 pounds 11.5 Ounces. It features a massive Hohenzollern Eagle.
Below the eagle are the initials K. P. E. V.. The first two letters
stand for "Royal Prussian," but I am unsure what the "E. and V."
stand for. Another collector who has seen it suggested that it is for the
railway system (Eisenbahn). This is a distinct possibility. Four holes
are drilled in the plaque, from when it was mounted to a building. It would
look great in any collector’s room, mounted on a wall or otherwise.
$1,195.00
(Click here for more images)
20-203 PILLOWCASES -
KAISER WILHELM II's ROYAL YACHT S. M. Y. HOHENZOLLERN.
I am constantly looking for items pertaining to German royal families. I
also am always on the lookout for items relating to Kaiser Wilhelm II’s
royal yacht, the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern. When we discover items from
both categories at once, it is our day for celebration! Today we are
offering pillowcases from the S. M. Y. Hohenzollern. These are like
no pillowcases that you ever seen, my friends. They are different sizes. One
measures 24" x 25," while the other measures 17 1/2" x 25 1/2." It is not their sizes
that make them so different. Instead, it is each pillowcase’s buttons
(five and three, respectively), which secured it on the pillow once the
cases were laundered and pressed. Each case sports Kaiser Wilhelm II’s
embroidered cypher, along with a number 1 and 2 below the
cypher. The red embroidery looks very striking against the pillowcase’s
whiteness. The pillowcase’s material is an unbelievably high-quality cotton,
or, a fine linen. It is extremely soft. The pillow cases are offered at
$195.00 each (your choice) or $350.00 for the pair.
(Click here for more images)
24-11 CADINEN ASHTRAY.
I have long wanted to offer an example of the Cadinen art
form on these pages. Cadinen was known for its clean lines
and simple but classic workmanship. This was a firm that was
owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II (or so I’ve been told) and
whose items bear his markings. The pieces produced included
bookends, animals, and even ashtrays. $275.00.
(Click here for more images)
20-223 CANDLE HOLDER - KAISERLICHER YACHT CLUB.
This is an interesting candle holder, displaying the Kaiserlicher Yacht
Club’s flag. Its reverse presents another flag, the Reischsdienstflagge
der Kaiserliche Marine. The flag was instituted in 1891 and used until
1918. It was formally abolished in 1922. Insert a candle and you will have an
elegantly handsome display.
$295.00
(Click here for more images)
20-52 KAISER PLAQUE.
A unique wooden and metal plaque featuring Kaiser Wilhelm II.
This plaque shows him in profile and wearing a garde du corps
helmet complete with the large Hohenzollern Eagle mounted at
the top. The wooden plaque measures 8 1/2" x 6
1/2". The metal oval portion which shows the Kaiser
measures 5 1/2" x 4 1/2". The back of the plaque
has a metal easel so that you may place it on a desk or a
book case. Very fine condition and a nice item for you
Wilhelm II collectors. $250.00
(Click here for more images)
20-171
AWARD DOCUMENT - PRUSSIAN CROWN ORDER 3rd CLASS - SIGNED BY KAISER
WILHELM II. This is an award document for the
Prussian Crown Order 3rd Class. It is dated 18 January 1903
in Berlin. The award was made to Oberstleutnant Friedrich von Peteresdorff,
who served on the staff of 4. Unter-Elsässischem Infantrie-Regiment Nr 143.
The document bears Kaiser Wilhelm II’s large and bold signature, along with
the House of Hohenzollern’s embossed coat-of-arms. The document has been
placed in a period matte, but is not framed. The matte measures 16" x 11
1/2." The document within the matte measures 12 1/2" x 8
1/4." Another separate matte has a typewritten copy of what is said exactly on
the document. I have no research at this time on Oberstleutnant von
Petersdorff. Perhaps he served in WW I. If he did, it is probable that he was
a general officer. $450.00
(Click here for more images)
20-25 WILHELM II LEATHER
NOTEBOOK. A very fine leather
notebook that measures 6 3/4" x 5 3/4" and is made
of brown leather. Embossed in the center measuring 3
1/4" in diameter is a profile likeness of Wilhelm II.
This is very highly detailed. We can see that Wilhelm II is
in full dress uniform and that he is even wearing a Black
Eagle Collar. Over his head we see "Wilhelm II Deutscher
Kaiser." Inside there is a single sheet of paper from
the original pad of paper under a cover. Nice item for your
desk.$225.00...
(Click here for more
images)
20-238 TWO KAISERS - DRINKING VESSEL - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE.
Although we have offere
d these drinking vessels in the past, we have never had
one in such exquisite condition, or with the original presentation case. It is
obvious that it has retained its pristine condition due to the presentation
case’s protective qualities. The vessel itself stands 5 3/4" tall, is
2" in diameter
at the base and 3" in diameter at its top. Its exterior finish is silver-toned,
it could be made of "German Silver (nickel)." One side features a quote from
Germany’s Kaiser Wilhelm II and a facsimile of his signature, while the other
side features the same from Austria’s Kaiser Franz Josef. Above this is a
gold-toned band featuring gold-toned coins with each Kaiser’s likeness in
profile above the appropriate quote and signature. The gold-toned band features
the sayings, "Den eisernen Becher, den vollen, weiht /Den eisernen Helden der
eisernen Zeit! (The Iron Cup, fully dedicated, to the Iron Heroes, the Iron
Time)!" The band’s opposite side reads, "1914 ** KriegsBecher
**1916." The cup’s interior is completely gold-toned.
The original presentation case is quite elaborate. It measures 3 1/4" in height,
7 3/4"
long and 4 3/4" wide. It is covered with red-toned, simulated leather and features
the word "Kriegsbecher" on its front. Inside, its upper lid is covered in
white silk. The lower compartment is covered in white velvet, with a white silk
section cutout to cradle the vessel. The entire lower compartment will lift out,
and may be propped up for easy display. It makes an absolutely gorgeous display
piece.
$650.00
(Click here for more images)
20-216 METAL GOBLET SALUTING KAISER
WILHELM II, PRINZ HEINRICH, AND S. M. S. DEUTSCHLAND.
This is a captivating variation of the ever-popular zinc cups that saluted
various members of Imperial German royalty. Our offering today is a cup with
three panels, saluting Kaiser Wilhelm II, his younger brother, Prinz Heinrich,
and the battleship S. M. S. Deutschland. The cup stands 5 1/2" tall, is
2 3/4"
in diameter at the base and 3" in diameter at the rim. It is hallmarked on the
base. It is a very fine example, in top condition.
$235.00
(Click here for more images)
20-199 GOBLET HONORING
KAISER WILHELM II AND RACING SLOOP - S. M. Y. IDUNA.
This is a fine
goblet that appears to be made from zinc. It stands 5 1/2" tall. It measures
3" in diameter at the rim, and 2 3/4" in diameter at the base. It sports three
decorative panels. The first shows Kaiser Wilhelm II in naval uniform. The
second shows his racing sloop, the S. M. Y. Iduna. The third panel
shows König Carl I. von Rumänien’s crowned cypher. (König Carl I. was also the
Regimental Chef of Dragoner-Regiment Nr 9). The cup is finely made. It
sports manufacturer’s hallmarking on the bottom.
Material from any of the Kaiser’s yachts is difficult to find. The S. M. Y.
Iduna is one of the Kaiser’s lesser-known vessels that was used for
yachting competitions of the Kaiserlicher Yacht Club.
$250.00
(Click here for more images)
20-229 CAR PENNANT - ROYAL HUNTSMEN - KAISERLICHE HUNTING
PRESERVE.
This is a car pennant that measures
12 1/4" x 7 1/2." It is stiffly mounted, so that it would extend outward
when mounted on an automobile’s fender. It was used on the royal huntsmen’s
car at a hunting estate owned by Kaiser Wilhelm. The pennant’s edge is
black. The pennant itself is green, with a gold device in the center
indicating it is for a royal hunting preserve. A rope lanyard with a brass
clip at one end secures it. The pennant shows enough wear to confirm its
age. It is an unusual item for any collection.
$595.00
AR
(Click here for more images)
20-230 TWO SMALL PLAQUES
ON EASELS - KAISER WILHELM II AND KAISERIN
AUGUSTA VIKTORIA.
This is a fine pair of small
plaques that measure 2" x 1 1/2." They represent Kaiser Wilhelm II and his
wife, Kaiserin Augusta Viktoria. Each plaque displays the motto "Gott Mit
Uns" at the top. The royal couple’s images are in high-relief. Their
birth dates are listed to the right or left of their heads. Below the
Kaiserin we read "Auguste Viktoria Kaiserin und Königin." Wilhelm’s
plaque displays the legend "Kaiser Wilhelm II." Both are decorative
and well-made. The two plaques are mounted on easels measuring 3 1/2" x 2."
When placed on a table, the kaiser should be on the right and the kaiserin
on the left, so they can look across at one another. They are quite
touching.
$375.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Kaiserin Augusta
Viktoria
20-211KAISERIN AUGUSTA
VIKTORIA’S RINGKRAGEN (GORGET) AS REGIMENTAL CH
EF - PRUSSIAN KÜRAßIER-REGIMENT
Nr 2 IN THE ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX. Today we are offering Kaiserin Augusta
Viktoria’s ringkragen (gorget) as Regimental Chef of Küraßier-Regiment
Königin (Pommersches) Nr 2. Kaiserin Augusta Viktoria (1858-1921) was
Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany’s wife. She was born in Schleswig-Holstein. She
married Kronprinz Wilhelm (later Kaiser Wilhelm II) in 1881. She bore him an
heir in 1882, who was also to be a Kronprinz Wilhelm. This lad never achieved
Germany’s throne, since the monarchy fell in 1918. He instead became a
"Pretender," when his father died in 1941. Augusta Viktoria gave the Kaiser a
total of six sons and one daughter. She worshiped her husband and he adored
her. They were very close. When Wilhelm II abdicated his throne in 1918, she
joined him in exile to the Netherlands at Haus (Huis Doorn). This is where she died in 1921. Her
body was returned to Germany, where it was buried at Berlin’s Neu Palais
(New Palace). The Kaiser was not afforded the same privilege. When he died in
1941, he was buried at Haus Doorn, where he remains today in a special
crypt on the grounds of the estate not far from where many of his beloved
Dachshunds are also buried.
It was customary in Imperial Germany for certain elite regiments to be honored
with a royal patron who assumed the position of its honorary oberst and Regimental
Chef. The Kaiserin was the Regimental Chef of Küraßier-Regiment
Königin (Pommersches) Nr 2. The regiment was founded in 1717. It was
garrisoned at Pasewalk, where it was attached to the II. ArmeeKorps.
This very special regiment was considered one of the leading küraßier-regiments.
The regiment played a major role in the Battle of Hohenfriedberg, which
took place on 4 June 1745. The Prussian Army was led by Frederick II
himself. It faced a combined force of Austrians and Saxons in a decisive
battle for Silesia (in today’s Poland). As a result of the battle, Frederick
II was acknowledged as "Frederick the Great." Also, Küraßier-Regiment
Königin (Pommersches) Nr 2 was granted the right to wear a bandeau on
their headdress proclaiming "Hohenfriedberg 4 Juni 1745." This was
quite an honor. Küraßier-Regiment Königin
(Pommersches) Nr 2 was the Prussian Army’s only cavalry or infantry
regiment to be so honored. Most headdresses that carry bandeaux come
from the former Kingdom of Hannover and the Duchy of Braunschweig. Not only
did Kaiserin Augusta Viktoria serve as Küraßier-Regiment
Königin (Pommersches) Nr 2's Regimental Chef, but her son,
Kronprinz Wilhelm, served in that regiment as an Oberst à la Suite. (We
recently sold the Kronprinz’s personal helmet from the regiment).
Having a woman as the Regimental Chef presented a number of interesting
"problems," especially for a regiment like Küraßier-Regiment
Königin (Pommersches) Nr 2. When a Regimental Chef rode with "his"
regiment, he normally assumed the regiment’s complete uniform, including the
tunic, trousers, headdress, etc. Since it was a Küraßier-Regiment, Küraßier-Regiment Königin (Pommersches) Nr
2 members naturally wore küraßes
for parades. 
[With Küraßier-Regiment
Königin (Pommersches) Nr 2, this was a gilt küraß
similar to the Regiment der Garde du Corps, "the Kaiser’s Own." Kaiser
Wilhelm II was the Regiment der Garde du
Corps’ Regimental Chef]. Anatomically, it was awkward for a woman to wear
a küraß (breast plate).
This problem was sidestepped by allowing the Kaiserin to wear only the
regiment’s ringkragen. The Kaiserin also wore a tricorn hat with
feathers as opposed to a spiked helmet when she rode with her regiment as seen
in an image of her from a painting where she is actually wearing the gorget
that we offer today. Along with the küraß
the regiment’s officers wore a ringkragen (gorget), a shield-like plate
suspended from a chain. It was an important accessory of an officer’s dress
uniform. They are quite rare. In Germany, an example from this regiment easily
fetches $12,000.00+ when in fine condition.
It is a simply amazing piece. Without a doubt, it is one of the most
interesting German royalty items we have ever offered. The ringkragen,
as previously mentioned, is shaped like a shield. It measures 5 1/2" x 5" at
its widest point. Its edge is trimmed in brass. It has a mirror-like surface
of polished, silver-toned metal. In the center is a beautifully hand painted,
black and gold Hohenzollern Eagle on a red background. Two to three very small
stress fractures appear. I cannot tell if this is in the enamel, or if it is a
glass covering that has the cracks. [I will try to highlight them as best as I
can in the accompanying photographs. They are NOT detractive to the overall
presentation]. The Eagle is framed, with green enamel leaves on the sides.
Coming from the right and left sides are what appear to be furled flags. The
flags are made of silver. The tips of the banners are gold-toned. Beneath this
are four crossed cannons and the date "1745." It is just stunning. The
detail is breathtaking.
The gorget’s reverse is sumptuously lined in a luxuriant, superior-quality,
purple velvet. Naturally, the color indicates the wearer is a member of
royalty. No regular officer from the regiment would have his gorget lined with
the same material! Rather officer's gorgets were lined with a carmine red
which is vastly different from this color. Four brass nuts with washers secure the gorget’s front
portion to the reverse. The bottom sports an upward-swept clip that allows it
to be attached to a garment. Most interesting of all is a horizontal pin,
which measures 2 3/4." This pin is GOLD. [In the photographs accompanying the
description you will see photos of a "normal" regimental officer’s gorget.
Please note the varied differences, including the horizontal pin on the
Kaiserin’s version, and the difference in the backing material].
We are also including a photograph of a period oil painting showing the
Kaiserin riding with her regiment. She is wearing the ringkragen. You
will now understand why the horizontal pin is present on her gorget. Since she
did not wear a küraß, the
ringkragen is pinned to her "tunic." The tunic is also different from what
the regiment wore, since it was for a woman (and a royal one at that). She is
riding a horse sidesaddle. The tunic almost appears to be more like a blouse,
but it is very similar to the regiment’s tunic in overall construction and
design.
The chain accompanying the gorget is also quite amazing. It measures 18 1/2"
in length. It is far different from an officer’s version, as you will note
from the photographs. The chain is linked and intertwined. The connecting
hardware is similar to what you might see on a high-quality neck chain. Its
ends are undoubtedly GOLD. I am still unsure if the chain is GOLD or brass.
The chain’s backing is the same high quality purple velvet as is found on the ringkragen’s back.
The gorget and all of its supporting materials are made of the highest quality
materials. No expense was spared. The ensemble is in sparkling condition. It
comes in a fitted box that has helped preserve its condition for more than
one-hundred-years. The box measures 5 3/4" x 5 1/4." It is made of black
leatherette. The box is structurally sound, although normal wear can be seen
on it. Inside, we see a pink silk liner on the upper half, and a matching,
pale-rose, flocked velvet on the lower half. Pasted on the pale rose material
of the box’s lower half is "C. E. Juncker, Berlin Sw., Alte Jacobstrasse
13. Militair-Effecten-Fabrik." Many people think that C. E. Juncker produced only flight badges.
Nothing could have been further from the truth. While they did produce the
finest flight badges, they also produced a wide variety of items including
metal helmets, uniform items, etc. When this fine firm was commissioned to
produce the ringkragen, they went all out to ensure that the Kaiserin
received the best, regardless of cost.
One final detail is a small piece of paper that measures 6" x 5 1/8," and has
been folded in half. In black ink is the simple description that this item was
the property of her majesty, Kaiserin Augusta Viktoria. It was pierced and
held in place by the GOLD pin on the ringkragen’s reverse. I removed it
for the photographs, and have returned it to the state in which I received it.
While Kaiser Wilhelm II had closets of uniforms and the effects that went with
them, items that are military-related for women are very rare. This is a true
piece of history. We are delighted to share it with you today.
$34,495.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Kaiser Wilhelm I
20-143
FRAMED COLLAGE - KAISER WILHELM I. This is a
fascinating framed collage of artifacts relating to Kaiser Wilhelm I
(1797-1888). To begin, the framed collage measures 26" x 29 1/2."
The framing is very high-quality but modern-day, not period. The frame
displays a beautiful gilded molding that sets off the items within the frame
quite handsomely. At the frame’s bottom is a brass plaque that states
"Kaiser Wilhelm I 1797-1888." Within the frame are three different windows
that have been created to house three items. Each of the windows is
double-matted to set off the contents even more attractively. To the far left
is a front page newspaper dated 13 March 1888. The newspaper measures
20 1/4" x 15," and is from Bremen. It carries the story
of the Kaiser’s death, along with key points of his life. On display at the
top right is a high-quality, printed notice of a memorial service for the
Kaiser by the "Deutschen Vereinen Londons (Germans United in/with London) on 24 March 1888. This measures 9 1/4" x
7." Finally, on the bottom right is Kaiser Wilhelm I’s formal portrait,
measuring 7" x 4 3/4." It also displays his distinctive
signature in black ink. This magnificent presentation deserves a special place
in your home or office.
[As this is
a very large presentation, professional packing will be required to
ensure safe delivery to its new owner. Shipping charges are dependent on the
buyer’s location].
$1,195.00
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20-110 KNIGHTHOOD PRESENTATION
DOCUMENT SET FROM THE ERA OF KAISER WILHELM I - PRUSSIA.
This is the formal presentation set awarded to men who were
elevated to Prussian knighthood. This very elaborate set
consists of a hand carved wooden box for the Adelsbrief.
This was the formal document recognizing the newly-elevated
knight. The ornately hand carved storage box depicts the
Hohenzollern Eagle on its outer lid. The box is secured by a
lock and key. This is the first such relic I have owned that
still has its key. The box measures 17 ½" x 14" x
5." Even on its own, this box is most impressive! In
addition to the intricately carved Hohenzollern Eagle on the
lid, elaborate carving decorates all the box’s surfaces.
Inside, a floral silk insert graces the upper lid. A
sumptuous red, leather, bound folio, measuring 14 ½ " x
11," encases the formal knighthood document. Again, the
Hohenzollern Eagle is seen embossed in gilt on the
folio’s cover. Each of the document’s eight pages
is made of the finest heavy velum that could be obtained at
the time,(or today, for that matter). The text is rendered by
a master calligrapher. The basic information is listed for Franz
Albert Philipp Wittcke. His name is
mentioned in that manner on several occasions until we
finally see Franz Albert Philipp von
Wittcke. Von Wittcke
was a retired hauptmann in the Landwehr
Battalion. The full-color coat-of-arms,
which was created exclusively for the von
Wittcke family, is the central theme
within the folio. The hand painting on the velum remains
vibrant even after 130+ years. It is truly a work of art.
This document hails from around 1873, when many officers
retiring from the army were awarded for their faithful
service to the crown, especially in light of the recently
completed Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. The bold signature
of Kaiser Wilhelm I appears on the final page of the
document. Also appearing is the signature of Graf
Schulenburg, an official of the court. The final piece of
this presentation set is a silver canister, measuring 6"
in diameter. This canister displays Wilhelm I’s crowned
cypher, along with the Latin motto "Sum
Cuique". Further, we see "Gott
Mit Uns." Inside should be a red
wax seal displaying the House of Hohenzollern’s
Coat-of-Arms. Although the red wax device is present, it
shows no evidence of the Hohenzollern Coat-of-Arms! This is
just a minor quirk. These sets are amazingly
difficult-to-find. This is one of the most display-worthy
examples that I have ever offered. $6,495.00. .
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Items Relating to Kronprinz
Wilhelm
20-196 SOUP BOWL -
PERSONAL TABLEWARE - KRONPRINZ WILHELM - 1905
.
KPM was the
leading porcelain manufacturer during the Imperial German Period. This
quality maker of porcelain is still in business today. It remains one of the
world’s finest producers of porcelain objects. KPM provided top
quality tableware to all of Prussia’s royal families, going back to
Frederick the Great. Today we are offering a soup bowl, which was a part of
Kronprinz Wilhelm (1882-1951) of Prussia’s personal service. It measures 9
1/2"
in diameter. It is beautifully hand painted, featuring Kronprinz Wilhelm’s
crowned royal cypher. Wilhelm was married in 1905 to Kronprinzessin Cecilie
(1886-1954), of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. This set was produced in 1905, the
year Wilhelm married Cecilie. I expect it was done as a result of the
marriage, and for the greater amount of dinners that he and his wife would
soon host. The reverse of the bowl is hallmarked for KPM and 1905.
$1,550.00
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20-197 BREAD/DESSERT
PLATE - PERSONAL TABLEWARE - KRONPRINZ WILHEL
M - 1916.
KPM was
the leading porcelain manufacturer during the Imperial German Period. This
quality maker of porcelain is still in business today. It remains one of the
world’s finest producers of porcelain objects. KPM provided top
quality tableware to all of Prussia’s royal families, going back to
Frederick the Great. Today we are offering a bread or dessert plate, which
was a part of Kronprinz Wilhelm (1882-1951) of Prussia’s personal service.
It measures 7" in diameter. It is beautifully hand painted, featuring
Kronprinz Wilhelm’s crowned royal cypher. Wilhelm was married in 1905 to
Kronprinzessin Cecilie (1886-1954), of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. This set was
set produced in 1916. It is still of very high quality for having been
produced during the middle of WW I. The bowl’s reverse is hallmarked for
KPM and 1916. A very small chip appears on the reverse. It cannot
be seen from the obverse.
$1,295.00
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20-209 KRONPRINZ WILHELM PRESENTATION STICKPIN -
ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - PRUSSIA.
This is
a superior, presentation stickpin from Kronprinz Wilhelm of Prussia. Wilhelm
was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s eldest son, and heir to Germany’s throne until WW I
ended. After his father died in 1941, he was the pretender to the throne. On
holidays and various other occasions, Kronprinz Wilhelm and his father
presented gifts to their favorite people. This stickpin is just such an
item. It features a GOLD circle, inside of which resides a blue-enameled
"W" trimmed in GOLD. A GOLD Hohenzollern Crown is mounted over the "W."
In turn, this is mounted on a high-quality, knurled, GOLD pin, measuring 2
1/4"
in length.The stickpin is of the highest quality, which is confirmed by its
presentation case. The case is made of gray leatherette. Some minor
separation of the leatherette shows at the case’s bottom. It measures 3 3/4" x
1 1/4." Inside the case is a white silk liner, which is imprinted with J. H.
Werner’s name and address in Berlin. They were one of the royal family’s
house jewelers. It is an elegant gift given to a favored few by the man who
should have become Germany’s 4th Kaiser.
$1,495.00
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20-162 K SABERTACHE
STORAGE CASE AND FOUL WEATHER COVER TO KRONPRINZ WILHELM von PREUßEN FOR 1.
LEIB-HUSAREN-REGIMENT Nr 1. As a part of our final royalty week
after our return from Germany, we are very pleased to offer a most unusual
item which Kronprinz Wilhelm von Preußen. This is a sabertache storage case
and foul weather cover for the Kronprinz’s sabertache. The Kroneprinz was
always very closely associated with 1. Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1.
It was his primary regiment and most photos that we see of him in uniform show
him in the uniform of that regiment. Whether you see him in a busby or a visor
cap of the regiment, that was always his trademark. 1.
Leib-Husaren-Regiment Nr 1 was one of four regiments in the
German army that carried a Totenkopf on their headdress. Generalfeldmarschall
August von Mackensen was also closely tied to this regiment and had been in a
young officer in it and had won an 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class during
the Franco-Prussian War. He served as its regimental commander at one point
and all through his career as a general officer he was most often seen in the
uniform of the regiment. Getting back to the Kronprinz, he was an Oberst a la
Suite for the regiment. The Sabertache was a case that officers, NCO’s and
Enlisted Men from Husaren-Regiments wore on their
uniforms. A sabertache was a decorative case that was worn suspended from
three leather belts. On the exterior it had the regimental colors and the
royal cypher for the head of state from which the regiment came. The
sabertache would flip up and papers or documents could be carried inside along
with other small items. Our offering today is a combination of the sabertache
storage case for the sabertache of the Kronprinz and the foul weather cover
for the sabertache. To preserve his sabertache when not in use he had this
hard case which measured 13 1/4" x 11 1/4" x 2 1/4". This would have been similar to a
Pickelhaube or Busby storage case which would have protected the headdress
when not in use. The
exterior of the case is made of leather which shows normal use and on the
front we see the royal crowned cypher of the Kronprinz embossed in gold.
Inside the case the lining is of a cream colored silk. The manufacturers
markings, "L. Robrecht KGL. Hoflieferant Berlin", can
also be seen on the silk lining. Housed inside the storage case is the foul
weather cover which would have been placed over the actual sabertache during
foul weather. The cover is made of what I would call a high quality oil cloth.
There are four small metal snaps inside and there are slots where the three
leather belts which supported the sabertache would have been passed through.
There is some staining to the silk lining in the storage box where the foul
weather cover has rested for many years. This is an amazing accessory which
once belonged to Kronprinz Wilhelm. I only wish that I could have acquired his
sabertache as well!
$3,495.00
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Items Relating to King Frederick II
(The Great)
20-220 SEAL - FRIEDRICH THE GREAT.
This is a metal seal bearing
Frederick II’s (1712-1786) likeness. Frederick II is more commonly known as
"Frederick the Great." He was Prussia’s third King, who began Prussia’s
march toward a position of prominence in Europe. (His grandson, Friedrich
Wilhelm III, led Prussia though the Napoleonic Wars and instituted the Iron
Cross in 1813). The seal reproduces a profile view of Germany’s first great
King. The seal stands 1 1/8" tall. The actual seal is 1" in diameter. The seal
dates from approximately 1800, not too long after Frederick the Great’s
death. Frederick the Great was also known for founding the Orden Pour le
Mérite and building the historic palace Sans Soucci. His fondness for
French over the German language is evident in both of these names. Included
with the seal is a piece of paper whereupon the seal was stamped, producing
seals as they would have appeared TWO centuries ago. It is a most
interesting display item. $650.00
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Items Relating to King
Friedrich Wilhelm III
19-121 DOCUMENT FOR
A YOUNG LEUTNANT- SIGNED BY KING
FRIEDRICH WILHELM III OF PRUSSIA. This is a letter dated
5 June 1819 from King Friedrich Wilhelm III (1770-1840). Friedrich Wilhelm
III was the King of Prussia (1797-1840) during the Napoleonic Wars. The Iron
Cross was first authorized during his reign. The letter deals with a Premiereleutnant Graf Haugwitz,
who was serving on the Prussian General Staff. The letter is on velum. Friedrich Wilhelm III’s signature
is clear. It was signed on the letter after it was prepared for him.
$375.00
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Items Relating to King
Friedrich Wilhelm IV
20-233
FLORAL PATTERN DINNER PLATE - PERSONAL SERVICE - KÖNIG FRIEDRICH WILHELM IV
- PRUSSIA.
This is a recessed dinner plate from König Friedrich Wilhelm
IV of Prussia’s personal dinner service. It dates from about 1850. It sports
a multicolored floral pattern, with vibrant green leaves flanking green and
purple grapes. The reverse has hallmarking for KPM, the firm that provided
tableware for all the Kings and Kaisers of Prussia from Frederick the Great
through Kaiser Wilhelm II. In addition to KPM’s hallmarking, we also see the
Prussian King’s cypher. It is a fine example.
$995.00
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31-33
GENERALMAJOR PROMOTION PATENT FROM THE TIME OF KING FRIEDRICH WILHELM IV - PRUSSIA.
This is the oldest promotion patent that we have ever offered. It is for an
Oberst who was being promoted to Generalmajor. His name was Ludwig von
Gersdorff. He was the commander of Infantrie-Brigade Nr 32 and á la
Suite Infantrie-Regiment Nr 27. This document measures 14 1/4" x 8
3/4." It unfolds into three separate pages with various information. The
document is dated 22 May 1858 and signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV
of Prussia. It has been folded, with some tearing and foxing at certain
points. That said, the document is complete, and generally in good condition.
It is very difficult to find promotion patents for generals. It is nothing
short of astounding to find one that is nearly 150 years old! King Friedrich
Wilhelm IV’s signature is on the final page.
$595.00
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19-122 DOCUMENT FOR
A YOUNG LEUTNANT - SIGNED BY KING
FRIEDRICH WILHELM IV - PRUSSIA.
This is an ORIGINAL letter
signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV (1795-1861). Friedrich Wilhelm IV was King
of Prussia (1840-1850). He was removed from the throne after he went insane.
The letter was written in the castle at Charlottenburg on 30 December 1847. This dealt with the promotion of a young Portopeefähnrich to Second
Lieutenant. The officer in question was Grafen zu Stolberg Wernigerode. This
action was taken by Friedrich Wilhelm IV as the head of the Garde-Korps.
The young officer was attached to 1. Garde-Regiment zu Füßilier. It is
a fine early promotion patent to a young nobleman. The format is different
from what was used by both Kaiser Wilhelm I and II.
$450.00
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Items Relating to Kaiser Friedrich III
19-129
KAISER FRIEDRICH III (1831-1888)- SIGNATURE - PRUSSIA.
Friedrich III was Germany’s second Kaiser. He succeeded his father, Wilhelm I,
who died in 1888. Sadly, Friedrich III, Kaiser Wilhelm II’s father, sat on the
throne for just three months. In Germany he is often referred to as the "100
Day Kaiser." During 1888, Germany had three kaisers in little more than three
months! Friedrich III was an able military commander who played an important
role in Germany’s victory in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71. This appears
to be a large envelope which has been unfolded. It measures 15 1/4" x 11." It is
addressed to a Major Goltz. In the lower left corner Friedrich III’s bold and
distinctive signature appears in black ink.
$195.00
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Items Relating to Prinz Heinrich
20-178 UNIFORM-SCHIRMUTZE-PHOTOGRAPH GROUPING -
PRINZ HEINRICH von PREUßEN AS GROßADMIRAL - KAISERLICHE
MARINE. This is an utterly fantastic grouping that once
belonged to Prinz Heinrich von Preußen (1862-1929). We have acquired a number
of Heinrich’s (Kaiser Wilhelm II’s younger brother) personal items over the
years. They have included complete uniform groupings from Großherzogl.
Artilleriekorps 1. Großherzogl. Hess. Feldartillerie-Regiment Nr 25 (where
he served as the Regimental Inhaber [Chef]) and 1. Garde-Regiment zu
Fuß.
He served as a Generaloberst in the rank of
Generalfeldmarschall in the latter regiment. In addition we have items of his available for immediate purchase from
Füßilier-Regiment Prinz Heinrich von Preußen
(Brandenburgisches) Nr 35 and
8.
Feldartillerie-Regiment Prinz Heinrich von Preußen. The four regiments mentioned above were the Imperial German Army units
(two Prussian, one Hessen, and one Bavarian) with which Heinrich was involved, beyond his primary attachment to the Kaiserliche Marine. Even
though Heinrich was a high-ranking member of Prussian royalty, he was also a functioning Imperial German Navy commander. During WW I he commanded
the Baltic fleet and oversaw action against the Russians. In fact, Heinrich
was one of only SIX men to achieve the rank of Großadmiral in the
Kaiserliche Marine. The six men included Kaiser Wilhelm II (1901), King
Oscar of Sweden (1901), Hans von Koester (1905), Prinz Heinrich (1909), Alfred
von Tirpitz (1911), and Hennig von Holtzendorff (1918). The rank of
Großadmiral (Grand Admiral) was equivalent to the German Army’s
Generalfeldmarschall. In both cases, rank-holders displayed the
Generalfeldmarschall/Großadmiral’s crossed batons on their shoulder
boards/epaulettes. In the German Army during WW I, approximately twelve to
fifteen men held the rank of Generalfeldmarschall.
Our description of the Heinrich grouping follows below.
TUNIC
The navy-colored tunic is in excellent condition. It is made of high-grade
gabardine. A double row of twelve, gilt-toned buttons (six to a row) runs down
the tunic’s center. A slanted pocket appears on the left breast. Above the
pocket are sewn-in loops, measuring 3 7/16," which held a large ribbon bar.
Another three sets of sewn-in loops were for Breast Stars or other important
decorations. In addition, two holes reveal reinforced stitching to accommodate
heavier pinbacked awards. It is quite unique. I have never seen this system on
a tunic. Rich, gold-bullion Großadmiral’s braid ornaments each tunic sleeve.
It is very elaborate and sumptuous. Above each set of sleeve braids is the
small gilt Hohenzollern Crown that always adorns an officer’s tunic.
Inside the tunic is a luxurious, ultra-high quality silk liner. The tunic’s
neck sports a tailor’s label. The label is for the Kaiser ‘s house tailor, "Hettlage
Lampe." The firm had offices in Kiel and Osnabrücke. Two interior pockets
exist, but show no ownership labeling. (This does not particularly
concern me, since the other two Heinrich tunics I am currently offering do not
display identification either. The only personal identification that I
have seen thus far is in his various headdresses). The tunic’s exterior is in
amazing condition. I cannot see a single solitary moth nip.
OFFICER'S SCHIRMUTZE (Visor Cap)
The second part of this grouping is Prinz Heinrich’s officer’s
schirmutze. The visor cap’s top is summer white rather, than dark-blue
winter. Summer caps are seen less frequently than winter caps. A wide black
band on the cap measures 2." In the cap’s center is a beautifully-toned
bullion officer’s badge. What catches my attention (in addition to its
manifest superiority and luscious patina) is the badge’s Hohenzollern Crown.
Seated gloriously atop the badge, it certainly has the look of GOLD. In
all probability, it is GOLD, since it exhibits no tarnish whatsoever.
The proper chinstrap (and the two small buttons securing it to the cap) is in
place. Quite often officers removed the chinstrap and buttons from their
schirmutzen. I am very happy to report their presence on our offering.
The cap’s white top is made of gabardine. The tunic is made from the same kind
of material as well (although obviously a different color). Some water appears
to have stained the top. The white material serves to heightens the effect.
Inside the cap is a doeskin sweatband with the high cross stitching only seen
on high-quality headdresses. It is another tip-off that the headdress is for
royalty or high-ranking nobility. The liner is made of magnificent white silk.
The silk liner boasts Prinz Heinrich’s hand-embroidered Hohenzollern Crown and
Cypher. It is executed in resplendent, eye-popping gold thread. What makes
Heinrich’s headdress so interesting is such dazzling handiwork. An extra white
top comes with the visor cap.
AUTOGRAPHED & PERSONALIZED FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH
This magnificent grouping’s final component is an autographed, framed
photograph of Prinz Heinrich in a Großadmiral’s uniform. (Perhaps it is this
very tunic. A prince of the realm, however, certainly had more than one
tunic)! The photograph depicts Prinz Heinrich seated, in left-faced
profile. The dates Prinz Heinrich commanded the Baltic Fleet against the
Russians are listed, along with the dedication and signature (in bold black
ink). The dates are 2 August 1914 to 24 January 1918. Although
his fleet was not as extensive as the one engaged with the British, Heinrich
and his commanders were effective against the larger Russian Fleet. Prinz
Heinrich is wearing a Pour le Mérite around his throat in the photograph. He
also is wearing an extensive ribbon bar on his left breast and a 1914 Iron
Cross 2nd Class ribbon in his lapel’s buttonhole. A Großadmiral’s
highly-ornate, gold bullion braid is clearly visible on his sleeve.
The handsome wooden frame boasts an unusual, silver-embossed, royal insignia
at its top. A swing away easel on the reverse holds the frame in place on flat
surfaces. The frame’s Hamburg production firm also appears on
the reverse. The frame measures 11 1/4" x 8½." The photograph within the frame
measures 8" x 6 1/4."
Prinz Heinrich was one of Prussia’s most popular royals during Imperial
Germany’s waning days. He was rivaled only by his brother, Kaiser Wilhelm II,
and his nephew, Kronprinz Wilhelm. He was an very effective commander. This
grouping could serve as any Kaiserliche Marine or Imperial German
collection’s centerpiece.
$28,995.00
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04-487
REGIMENTAL CHEF’S PICKELHAUBE AND SHOULDER BOARDS - PRINZ HEINRICH -
PRUSSIA - ARTILLERIE-REGIMENT Nr 8 - BAVARIA. Today we are
proud to offer an absolutely stunning Bavarian Artillerie Officer’s
Pickelhaube and shoulder boards for Prinz Heinrich of Prussia. Prinz
Heinrich was the Inhaber of 8. Feldartillerie-Regiment Prinz
Heinrich von Preußen. This regiment was raised in 1900. It was
garrisoned at Nürnberg, where it was assigned to the III. Bavarian
Armeekorps. As the regiment’s Inhaber, Heinrich was its
honorary oberst and, as such, their patron. A regimental oberst commanded
the troops on a daily basis. In his role as regimental Inhaber,
periodically Prinz Heinrich attended their functions. When he did, he
dressed in the same uniform and headdress as the other men. Regiments like
8. Feldartillerie-Regiment Prinz Heinrich von Preußen also had
honorary, á la Suite officers. A regiment could have any number of á la
Suite officers (1. Garde-Regiment zu Füß from Prussia had more
than twenty)! A regiment had only ONE Inhaber, however, and many
regiments had no patron at all. Since the regiment was created in 1900, it
did not have a very long history. It was disbanded when WW I ended in
1918.
Heinrich was named Inhaber of 8. Feldartillerie-Regiment Prinz
Heinrich von Preußen when it was created.
Officer
Pickelhaube
The pickelhaube dates circa
1900. It definitely shows prewar quality. It is exquisitely well made. You
will be hard pressed to find one of these helmets in better condition.
[Although Heinrich was the regiment’s Inhaber, I seriously doubt he
spent much time with them, as this helmet shows light use. He shouldered
the same responsibilities for at least two other regiments (one Hessen and
one Prussian), in addition to his status as one of the Kaiserliche
Marine’s very few Großadmirals]. In general appearance, this looks no
different from any other officer’s helmet in 8. Feldartillerie-Regiment
Prinz Heinrich von Preußen. Even though Heinrich was a Prussian
prince, when he was with the regiment, he was an honorary Bavarian. He
wore a Bavarian general’s trichter and feather bush to indicate he was a
general officer. He was a member of 8. Feldartillerie-Regiment Prinz
Heinrich von Preußen, however, when on parade.
The helmet’s leather body is superb. Its magnificent condition and
appearance are due to the fact that the finest leather available was used
in its construction. Its front visor is squared. The leather’s overall
condition is supple, with a fine, glossy appearance. We do not know how
many owners had custody of this helmet between Heinrich and Der
Rittmeister, but all have taken great care to preserve it. All of the
helmet’s furniture is gilt. Not only that, but this same furniture’s
quality is unsurpassed. When you examine hundreds, even thousands, of
helmets as I have over the years, you know when an item is from
royalty or nobility.
It all begins with the wappen. The detail is striking. It boasts a
beautifully crafted finish of frosted gilt. I ask you to pay particular
attention to the two rampant Bavarian Lions. They are just sensational.
The chin scales are convex, which is indicative of an artillery helmet.
The cruciform and officer’s stars are all beautiful, even after all these
years. The spike is extra tall and fluted. [Of course, when I mention a
spike on an artillery helmet you are wondering how can that be?
Bavaria did not change to the kugel from the spike for artillery
until 1915. Even then, the use of the kugel was optional, not
mandatory, so many men continued to use the spike]. The state and reich’s
kokarden are present and in perfect condition.
As beautiful as is the helmet’s exterior, the "show" really begins when we
look inside. First, we see a pristine, green, front visor in Moroccan
leather, and a red rear visor of that same material. The leather sweatband
is made of the most luxurious doeskin imaginable. Small spaces are placed
all the way around, where the white silk of the liner shows through. If
you look at it quickly, you might mistake it for cross stitching. In the
forward part of the sweatband, many tiny holes aided in cooling the
Prinz’s head. Embossed on the sweatband’s side is the name of the Berlin
helmet production firm. As previously mentioned, it has a marvelous white
silk liner. This usually indicates royalty. The liner is an
ultra-high-quality, watermarked silk. Sewn into the silk liner are
a hand-embroidered gold "H" and crown.
This is a cypher’s highest expression. In many cases (even in Heinrich’s
other helmets) the cyphers are embossed onto the liner. This
particular manner of cyphering was used primarily by Kaiser Wilhelm II. I
have seen this identical method (substituting the "W" for the
"H," of course) used on the Kaiser’s headdresses. Under the silk
liner, 100% of the original hardware is visibly in place. The number
"58" is penciled in, which is the helmet’s size. The helmet is
larger-than-usual, most helmets are in the "54" to "56"
range.
Shoulder Boards
For A Generaloberst In The Rank Of Generalfeldmarschall
The shoulder boards that accompany the pickelhaube are quite large,
measuring 4 ½" x 2" each. Their central theme is a gilt "8,"
indicating the regiment’s number. Surrounding the "8" are four
silver pips that indicate a Generaloberst in the rank of
Generalfeldmarschall. This is actually an unusual rank, since a true
Generaloberst has three pips. It is an in-between rank for the
members of royalty who served in an a la Suite capacity. They are a bit more than a Generaloberst, and not
quite as high as a Generalfeldmarschall, but rather a Generaloberst in the
rank of a Generalfeldmarschall. The shoulder boards display intertwined
ropes of embroidered gold and silver. The silver bullion rope sports blue
chevrons, which indicate that these shoulder boards are Bavarian. The
reverse has red backing and the necessary slip-on tabs to attach them onto
a tunic. The shoulder boards are in excellent condition. This is an
important mini grouping.
$16,495.00
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20-107 GROUPING (PICKELHAUBE, SHOULDER BOARDS, ETC.) - PRINZ HEINRICH
-
PRUSSIA - REGIMENTAL CHEF - FÜßILIER-REGIMENT Nr 35 -
PRUSSIA. Prinz Heinrich of Prussia
was the younger brother of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Their father
was Friedrich III, the second Kaiser of Germany. Their
grandfather was Wilhelm I, the first Kaiser of Germany, the
head of Germany as it became a more consolidated and unified
nation during the 1860's. [Of course Wilhelm I was greatly
aided by the "Iron Chancellor," Otto von Bismarck,
a major political and strategic genius of his day, who
steered Prussia through its turbulent times to emerge as
Germany’s premier state]. As a younger brother Prinz
Heinrich was destined to be involved in the military in more
of a titular role than as a direct field commander. Heinrich
was an interesting person. He held both the rank of
Großadmiral in the Kaiserliche Marine and Generaloberst in
the rank of Generalfeldmarschall in the army. He was, of
course, a Generaloberst in the rank of Generalfeldmarschall
in the famed 1. Garde-Regiment zu Füß. He also served as the
Regimental Chef of Großherzogl.
Artilleriekorps, 1. Großherzogl. Hessisches
Feldartilleree-Regiment 25, and in Fußilier-Regiment
Prinz Heinrich von Preußen (Brandenburgisches) Nr 35.
Earlier this year I had the pleasure of acquiring a uniform
and accouterment group for Heinrich from Großherzogl.
Artilleriekorps, 1. Großherzogl. Hessisches
Feldartilleree-Regiment 25 that included most of his daily
use items.
Today we offer a very rare ensemble that once belonged to
Heinrich, serving as Regimental Chef of Füßilier-Regiment
Nr 35. The group includes:
1) His
pickelhaube as Regimental Chef.
2) His
shoulder boards for this regiment in the rank of
Generaloberst in the rank of Generalfeldmarschall.
3) The canvas
cover for his pickelhaube.
4) An
autographed portrait photograph of Heinrich to an
officer who
had served in the regiment.
Keep in mind that
while Prinz Heinrich was a General when he was with this
regiment he was also one of "them" and was not
formally designated a General. (Confused yet?) A Regimental
Chef was, in fact, considered an honorary "Oberst"
of the regiment. The regiment still had a real
Oberst who commanded the regiment on a daily basis. Although
this may seem to be a very minute distinction, it is
important to note. That is why the helmet that is a part of
this grouping is for an officer of this
regiment, not
for a General. On the other hand, as you will learn further
in the description, the shoulder boards for his uniform ARE
for a Generaloberst .
So, with no further delay, let us begin our description:
Pickelhaube of
Prinz Heinrich
Prinz Heinrich’s Pickelhaube
as Regimental Chef of Füßilier Regiment Nr 35
.
At first glance, looking strictly at the exterior, this seems
to be a fairly standard line-officer’s pickelhaube. It
features an officer’s infantry-style wappen.
Upon closer examination, its quality is stunning. The wappen
is handsomely frosted. Its attention to detail and caliber is
sublime. The wappen
retains nearly 100% of its fire gilding despite being nearly
100-years-old. The other furniture of the helmet is also gilt
and is far above the level we often see in an officer’s
helmet. The chinscales, spike, etc. are magnificent. The
reich and state kokarden are present and of the highest
quality. The leather body of the helmet is ravishing. It is
baby’s-bottom smooth and clean. Inside the helmet we
find an absolutely-mint, wonderfully-textured, brown leather
sweatband. The silk liner is rust-colored and in perfect
condition. The latter sports Prinz Heinrich’s
gilt-embossed, crown-topped royal cypher. Every original nut
and bolt is present. A paper label appears with the statement
"Prima Qualitat," as well as a Regiment der Garde
du Corps helmet in full parade
configuration. On the inside of the label we see the
helmet’s size, a "58." The canvas cover of an officer is
included.
Shoulder Boards Of
A Generaloberst In The Rank Of Generalfeldmarschall
Pair of Daily Service Shoulder
Boards for a Generaloberst in the rank of
Generalfeldmarschall. Heinrich would
have used this pair of shoulder boards for non dress
occasions. They feature a wide, embroidered silver band of
Russian-style roping decorated with black chevrons (for
Prussia). Flanking the silver are two narrower bands of gilt
roping. The four silver-toned pips are correct for a
general’s rank. The gilt-toned number "35"
in the shoulder board’s center designate the regiment.
The shoulder board’s reverse reveals a red felt backing.
The shoulder boards feature the slip-on design for easy
removal, so that the tunic could be fitted with
"banjo-style" shoulder boards for dress occasions.
Both of these shoulder boards are in superlative condition.
Dedicated and Autographed Portrait
Photograph - Prinz Heinrich
Formal Portrait Photograph of Prinz
Heinrich Dedicated to an Officer in his Regiment.
This 
is a large format portrait photograph taken of Heinrich
by a photographer in Kiel. The photo measures approximately
5" x 7." Heinrich is in full dress uniform,
including his dress sash and "banjo-style shoulder
boards. In the photograph a general’s helmet with full
parade-dress feathers sits on a table. In the upper left
corner is a lengthy dedication to a man (an Oberleutnant Schlinder) covering the period "18
October 1900" through "16
June 1919." At the bottom of the
photograph boldly signed in ink is Heinrich’s name and "Chef."
4) Canvas Cover for the
Pickelhaube. This is the canvas
cover for Prinz Heinrich’s pickelhaube. The cover would
have been used in foul weather to protect the helmet’s
leather exterior and metal fittings. The quality of this
cover far surpasses that of any other cover I have seen. It
shows no markings, but like the pickelhaube it is in
first-rate condition. It has been manufactured from the
finest materials.
This is an exquisite
grouping from an important royal personage in Imperial
Germany. It provides a rare opportunity to acquire personal
items from a leading prince of Prussia.
$16,995.00. . .
(Click here for more images)
19-92 AUTOGRAPHED LETTER
FROM PRINZ HEINRICH OF PRUSSIA. This
is an original letter written by Prinz Heinrich of Prussia
(1862-1929). Heinrich was the younger brother of Kaiser
Wilhelm II. Heinrich served as the head of the Kaiserliche
Marine in the rank of großadmiral. He served in that
capacity until he disagreed with Großadmiral Alfred von
Tirpitz. Heinrich lost out on that power play when his older
brother backed von Tirpitz. Interestingly, this hand written
letter is on an 8 3/4" x 5 3/4" piece of paper that
has been folded in half and bears the embossed seal of the
Kroneprinzessen Cecilie. She was his niece by marriage, a
princess from Mecklenburg-Schwerin, and the wife of his
nephew, Kroneprinz Wilhelm, the heir to the Hohenzollern
throne and the man who never became Kaiser after the monarchy
fell in 1918. This letter was written 22 April 1922 in black
ink. A partial description of the letter in German is
included.
$175.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Prinz Adalbert of Prussia
20-210 WINE GLASS - PRINZ ADALBERT - PRUSSIA.
This is a high quality wine glass that once was the property of Prinz Adalbert
von Preußen (1884-1948). Adalbert was Kaiser Wilhelm II's (1859-1941) and
Kaiserin Augusta Viktoria’s third son. He was the only one of the Kaiser’s six sons who served in the Kaiserliche Marine. He
served in several naval positions during WW I. The wine glass is finely etched
in the front with a crowned "A." The glass’s stem is quite ornate. The
glass stands 7" in height, measures 2 1/2" in diameter at the rim, and is
3" in
diameter at the base. It is in excellent condition.
$895.00
(Click here for more images)
20-176 NAVAL STANDARD FOR A PRINZ OF THE HOUSE OF HOHENZOLLERN.
This is an
incredible standard/banner that was used on Kaiserliche Marine vessels.
The banner proclaimed the presence of a Prinz of the House of Hohenzollern on
board. Three Hohenzollern Princes are the
most likely to have had this particular flag flown for them. The senior of the
three was Großadmiral Prinz Heinrich (1862-1929). He was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s
(1859-1941) younger brother. The second was Kaiser Wilhelm II’s son, Prinz
Adalbert (1884-1948). The final prince was Prinz Heinrich’s son, Prinz
Waldemar (1889-1945). That said, if ANY Hohenzollern Prinz were visiting a
ship (even if he served in the Army), this flag would have correctly flown to
honor and recognize him.
The standard measures a whopping 6’ 11"(83") x 6’ 6"(78.") The banner’s center
sports a large Hohenzollern Eagle within a shield. Below that is an important
symbol of Prussian royalty, the Black Eagle Collar. [An excellent
representative of the Collar resides at Haus Doorn, Kaiser Wilhelm II’s
residence-in-exile, in the Netherlands. The last example I saw on the market,
which had belonged to the King of Bulgaria, sold with its presentation case
for more than $100,000!] Above it
all sits a red and gold Hohenzollern Crown. The entire arrangement is
superimposed on a large Iron Cross
measuring 5' 11" (71") x 6' 6"(78.") Two more smaller Hohenzollern Crowns
appear to the right of the shield. The upper left and lower right corners
feature smaller Hohenzollern Eagles. Two repair patches show in the upper and
lower right corners. No tearing or rips are apparent, although substantial
fading has occurred from exposure to the elements. The standard’s right side
displays a lanyard and other fittings by which it can be attached to a ship’s
halyard.
Normally, members of the royal house only visited battleships and battle
cruisers, so typically one would not see this banner on a small vessel. The
flag is somewhat similar to the Kaiser’s Standard, but some differences exist.
Its overall condition is average, or a bit better. This is not an
unused, or mint flag. It has seen service. It exhibits the expected wear a
cotton item such as this experiences when exposed to salt air, salt water,
smoke, etc. It is a great item for any royal or naval collection.
$3,495.00
(Click here for more images)
20-214 PHOTOGRAPH AND
FLAG - PRUSSIAN PRINCE -SMALL VESSEL - GERMAN LAKE.
The pageantry afforded
to House of Hohenzollern members was on par
with other royal European houses. As with England, the naval tradition was
very important to Wilhelm II. He spent lavishly on his fleet in an effort to
match the British Royal Navy. Kaiser Wilhelm II was a Großadmiral
in the Kaiserliche Marine, as was his brother, Prinz Heinrich. Both men
had a son who served in the Navy (Prinz Adalbert and Prinz Sigismund,
respectively). Traditionally, when a prinz was aboard a vessel, the ship
raised a special flag signifying his presence.
We currently are offering a large banner that was flown aboard battleships
when a prinz was aboard. Today we are offering something even more unusual. It is a
pairing of a photograph, and a flag that was flown from a small pleasure craft
on the Wannsee in Berlin.
The photograph comes from a photographic studio in
Berlin. It measures 6" x 7 3/4." It depicts a small pleasure craft, which I
estimate to be 45' to 55' in length. Flying from its stern is the very flag we
are offering today! It measures 59 1/2" x 39." In its center is a Hohenzollern
Eagle. An Iron Cross is in the corner. The flag is swallow-tailed. It is made
of a light-cotton material that is gauzy in appearance. Some light mothing
shows in a few places, but the flag remains in very good condition.
$3,850.00
(Click here for more images)
Bavaria
Items Relating to King Ludwig III
20-207 SALAD/DESSERT PLATE - SCHLOß NYMPHENBURG -
KÖNIG LUDWIG III - BAVARIA.
We are thrilled to
offer a dessert/salad plate from König Ludwig III of Bavaria’s royal table
service. This plate was produced from 1900 through 1912, while Ludwig II was
still Bavaria’s Prinz Regent. Schloß Nymphenburg was the Bavarian
royal household’s summer castle. Located in what is today suburban Munich,
it was first built in 1664. The Schloß and its grounds cover more
than 200 acres. Interestingly, the Munich 1972 Summer Olympics dressage
(equestrian) events were held on the castle grounds. The plate is
twelve-sided, and measures 8 1/8" in diameter. Without a doubt, this is the most
beautiful, elaborately hand painted royal plate of the many we have offered.
Two shades of blue and a royal gold are featured. An ornate pattern is
displayed throughout. The plate’s central theme is a house on a lake or
river. It is very striking, and would make a fine addition to any
collection.
$1,195.00
(Click here for more images)
31-42
OFFICER PROMOTION PATENT SIGNED BY KING MAXIMILIAN II - BAVARIA.
Maximilian II (1811-1864) was Bavaria’s third king after Napoleon created a
new royal house for it. Maximilian ruled from 1848-1864. He was followed by
his son Ludwig II (a. k. a., Mad Ludwig). This mini grouping includes a black
and white lithograph of Maximilian II, along with his basic vital information.
The second item in our mini grouping is an Oberlieutenant’s (yes, this
is the correct term!) Promotion Patent. His name is Friedrich Braun. The
promotion took place in 1849, the second year of Maximilian II’s reign. Along
with the various signatures is the King’s very elaborate and ornate seal. It
measures 4" in diameter. It has been affixed to a separate piece of paper,
which has in turn been affixed to the promotion document. The document
measures 13 ½" x 8." It is in marvelous condition for being almost
160-years-old.
$350.00
(Click
here for more images)
Items Relating to King
Ludwig III
20-139
BISQUE PORCELAIN PLAQUE COMMEMORATING CHRISTMAS 1917 AND KÖNIG LUDWIG III -
BAVARIA. This is an oval-shaped plaque
made of white, bisque porcelain. It measures 7" x 5 1/4." Its subject is the
King of Bavaria, Ludwig III. The plaque’s edges (frame) feature an
enchanting design. A high-relief profile of Ludwig III with his title
dominates the plaque’s center. Two different notations on the reverse
mention this was for Christmas (Weihnachten) 1917. A serial
number also advises that this is a limited edition piece. At its top, a
small blue and white (the Bavarian colors) string hanger is handy for
wall-mounting. This piece is in excellent condition.
$395.00
(Click
here for more images)
Items Relating to Prinzregent
Luitpold
20-234
SILVER/GOLD OVAL PRESENTATION MEDALLION/PENDANT COMMEMORATING PRINZREGENT
LUITPOLD von BAYERN’S LIFE. Prinzregent Luitpold of Bavaria served as
Bavaria’s defacto King from 1886, when Ludwig II was deposed (Ludwig
mysteriously died the following day in a lake accident), until his death in
1912. He proved to be an able ruler. The Bavarian people were very fond of
him. Today we are offering an interesting medallion/pendant that was given
as a gift to court favorites. It is an oval-shaped, silver and gold example.
It measures 2” x 1,” using the crown as its top point. The Prinzregent is
seen in profile view. The medallion is enclosed within a wreath of leaves,
with the Wittelsbach Crown at its top. Both the wreath and crown are GOLD.
Four small rubies appear at the 12 o’clock, 3 o’clock, 6 o’clock, and 9
o’clock positions. In addition, the crown circlet features two small
emeralds and a pearl. This, in fact, forms a complete frame, which we will
see as we examine the reverse. Another elongated pearl hangs down at the
frame’s bottom on the obverse.
Looking at the back of the crown, we see that it serves as a holder to mount
the medallion on a chain or any other item of the wearer’s choice. The
medallion’s reverse is encased in the GOLD frame. Inscribed on the reverse
in Latin is information about Prinzregent Luitpold. It lists his birth
information (12 March 1821) and his death date (12 December 1912). These
medallions were issued to favored people after his death by members of the
Wittelsbach family, including König Ludwig III, who succeeded Luitpold in
1913. It is obviously a much higher level of gift. It would have been given
to a lady of much greater importance than one who received the silver
example. These medallions were created by Professor W. von Hildebrand
(1847-1921), who crafted many items of this nature for the Wittelsbachs. It
is a beautiful memento of Prinzregent Luitpold, who was held in the deepest
esteem by his subjects.
$2,495.00
(Click here for more images)
20-235
SILVER OVAL PRESENTATION MEDALLION/PENDANT COMMEMORATING PRINZREGENT
LUITPOLD von BAYERN’S LIFE. Prinzregent Luitpold of Bavaria served as
Bavaria’s defacto King from 1886, when Ludwig II was deposed (Ludwig
mysteriously died the following day in a lake accident), until his death in
1912. He proved to be an able ruler. The Bavarian people were very fond of
him. Today we are offering an interesting medallion/pendant that was given
as a gift to court favorites. Our offering today is an oval-shaped silver
example. The Prinzregent is seen in profile view. The medallion is enclosed
within a wreath of leaves, with the Wittelsbach Crown at its top.
Inscribed on the reverse in Latin is information about Prinzregent Luitpold.
It lists his birth information (12 March 1821) and his death date (12
December 1912). These medallions were issued to favored people after his
death by members of the Wittelsbach family, including König Ludwig III, who
succeeded Luitpold in 1913. These medallions were created by Professor W.
von Hildebrand (1847-1921), who crafted many items of this nature for the
Wittelsbachs. It is a beautiful memento of Prinzregent Luitpold, who was
held in the deepest esteem by his subjects. It measures 1 1/2" X 1".
$1,395.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Kronprinz
Ruprecht
20-99 PRINZ RUPRECHT OF
BAVARIA OFFICER GIFT.
This is a most
interesting presentation gift which came from Prinz Ruprecht
of Bavaria. The gift was given to officers for an occasion
that I have been unable to identify. Besides being a member
of the Bavarian Royal Family, Ruprecht was a most able
military commander. He achieved the rank of
generalfeldmarschall based on his ability,
not just his royal birth. This gift consists of a
custom-designed presentation case that also acted as a
display case. This was done by lifting a section of the
interior and converting it to an easel. It locks into a
45-degree position for easy viewing. The case measures 3
1/4" x 4 1/4." The easel holds an oval-shaped
medallion of Prinz Ruprecht, which measures 1 3/4" x
2." The outer lid of the case is quite decorative and
bears the Bavarian checkerboard design. The obverse of the
medallion has a high-relief profile of the Prinz. The reverse
of the medallion bears the hallmarking of the jeweler who
produced it, and the silver content (.900). To have received
an item like this was a real honor. It would have been a
prized possession of the original owner.
$595.00. . .
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Prinz Alfons
Prinz Alfons of Bavaria was born 24
January 1862. He was the son of Prinz Adelbert and his uncles
included the King of Bavaria Maximilian II, Prinzregenten
Luitpold, and King Otto of Greece. When he was a young man,
as with many of his class, he began a career in the Army. He
was commissioned as a Leutnant in an Infantry Regiment in
1880. In 1884 he was promoted to Rittmeister in 1. Schweres
-Reiter-Regiment. Alfons later commanded this regiment in
1892. His first appointment as a General officer came on 17
December 1899 when he was promoted to Generalmajor. Further
appointments to Generalleutnant came on 18 January 1901 and
to General der Kavallerie on 23 March 1905. In 1909 he was
appointed as the Chef of 7 K.B. Chevaulegers-Regiment Prinz
Alfons.
04-363 PICKELHAUBE FOR
PRINZ ALFONS OF BAVARIA AS REGIMENTAL CHEF OF DRAGONER-REGIMENT
Nr 5 COMPLETE WITH SPIKE,
PARADE FEATHERS, AND TWO STORAGE BOXES - PRUSSIA.
Prinz Alfons of Bavaria is an old friend of ours. Over the
years we have been privileged to offer many of his items.
These have included uniform, sword, luggage, etc. We invite
you to view his biographical sketch (click here to go to our
ROYALTY Page). As a member of the Bavarian royal family,
Alfons had a military history. He served as a General der
Kavallerie in the Bavarian Army. Previous to this date the
most important artifact that we have offered was his Bavarian
General’s helmet. This was one of my all-time finds. It
now resides in the collection of a very advanced collector
here in the U.S. I never thought I would be able to acquire
another helmet from Prinz Alfons, but last month in Germany,
I did! This helmet is far different from the first one we
offered. Aside from his duties in the Bavarian Army, Prinz
Alfons also served as the Inhaber
(Regimental Chef) of Dragoner-Regiment
Freiherr von Manteuffel (Rheinisches) Nr 5.
This regiment was founded in 1860. It was garrisoned at
Hofgeismar. Alfons was appointed Regimental Chef of the
regiment at some point after 1900. Viewing the helmet from
the exterior, it appears to be a standard Dragoner
line-officer’s helmet. This is because when Alfons wore
this regiment’s helmet, he was their honorary oberst,
rather than a general. That is why the helmet does not
display a general’s wappen,
even though Alfons WAS a general. It has a silver wappen,
cruciform, pearl ring, spike, and trim (the patina on each of
these items will take your breath away). The chinscales are
gilt (a really amazing set in terms of quality), as are the
officer’s stars. I might add that the spike is very
tall for a Prussian helmet, VERY
tall. The wappen is
a magnificent work-of-art. The exquisite detail to the
feathers on the body and wings of the eagle is amazing. The
officer’s state and reich kokarden are present. As this
was a Prussian regiment, Alfons wore a Prussian kokarde on
this helmet, even though he was a Bavarian. Before we move
from the exterior of the helmet, let me confirm that the
leather body of the helmet is flawless. The leather body of
this helmet is as fine as any I have ever seen. Inside the
helmet is a lovely and supple leather sweatband that shows no
wear. A creme-colored silk liner is present. It has a metal
instead of an embossed cypher for Prinz Alfons which is a bit
unusual. Underneath the silk liner we also see a paper label
identifying the helmet as Alfons’ property. Under the
liner is something else I would like to discuss with you. In
the past I have cautioned you about "extra" holes
in the area of a wappen.
While it is well worthy of being cautious, PLEASE
REMEMBER GOOD REASONS CAN EXIST FOR AN OCCASIONAL EXCEPTION.
This helmet DOES have an extra pair of holes. Two very neat
leather patches are placed over them, both of which are quite
old and are clearly period. When I first looked at this
helmet, naturally I had a concern. I quizzed the owner about
why he thought the holes existed. His answer was (this makes
very good sense to me. Indeed, I had already thought of it,
but I wanted to see what explanation HE had to offer) that as
Alfons was a Bavarian, he bought all of his uniforms and
headdress from purveyors in Bavaria. At the time he placed
the order for this helmet, the holes had been drilled for a
Bavarian helmet. Naturally, the holes for the Prussian wappen
did not match up. Therefore, a second set of holes had to be
drilled to fit the Prussian wappen.
The very neat leather patches were installed to cover the
holes intended for the Bavarian wappen.
I believe this is a valid explanation. Let me further explain
why I support this theory and why I am convinced this helmet
indeed belonged to Prinz Alfons of Bavaria.
The helmet itself
is marked twice to Prinz Alfons of Bavaria. I am more
familiar with his Cypher than any other German royal. I
have seen it in paper form (as is in the helmet) and in
metal form as appears on the silk liner.
As I will relate
further along in this description, the storage cases (for
pickelhaube and trichter) both bear his name. I have seen
this many times before on his personal property.
The overall
quality of this helmet (and all of the accompanying
pieces) is consistent with that of German royalty. All
pieces of this ensemble are of the highest quality. This
is the type of material that royals expected and
demanded.
The leather
patches (you can clearly see the age on the patches) for
the first set of holes are a period repair. They are so
neatly made, it is obvious they had to be done in the
original workshops, and not by a modern-day
"enhancement specialist."
The source for
this is one of my very best in Germany. He has provided
many Alfons items to me in the past. His reputation for
honesty and knowledge is unexcelled. He, in fact,
supplied the first pickelhaube that belonged to Prinz
Alfons. He is a trusted friend and business associate
whose integrity I have NO reason to question.
For all of these
reasons, I had NO qualms in buying this ensemble. As
mentioned above, the helmet comes stored in a high-caliber
pickelhaube storage case. It has a paper label at the bottom
identifying it as Prinz Alfons of Bavaria’ property.
Finally, the parade trichter comes in its original storage
(ultra rare!!) case, which is also identified as the property
of Prinz Alfons of Bavaria. While Alfons was the oberst
of this regiment, he still ranked as a general. In this
respect, his parade trichter is for a general. These parade
feathers are black and white for Prussia, and not blue and
white for Bavaria as he would have worn on his Bavarian
General helmet. The feathers exhibit some wear, but are still
quite pleasing and magnificent when attached to the helmet.
This is an important and superb ensemble for a member of the
Bavarian royalty and the House of Wittelsbach. $19,995.00 . . .
(Click here for more
images)
20-14 COMPLETE FELDGRAU UNIFORM GROUPING FOR PRINZ
ALFONS OF BAVARIA. During my many trips to Germany, I have able
to turn up several personal items that once belonged to Prinz Alfons of
Bavaria (including a magnificent Bavarian General’s Pickelhaube). On this
most recent trip I was fortunate to be able to unearth several more items.
This incredible Feldgrau uniform grouping, consisting of a frock tunic,
matching trousers, and a visor cap, was made for Alfons for his involvement
in the Order of St. George.
The
frock tunic dates to about 1916 and bears the tailor
information for Christian Schwartz & Son of Munich.
The condition of the tunic is nothing short of excellent.
Looking inside the tunic we see a fantastic silk lining
which is every bit as attractive as the exterior of the
tunic. The cypher of Alfons is embossed in the lining way
up high near the neck. A double row of silver buttons on
the front of the tunic (seven on each side) bears the
cross of St. George. This same type of button appears for
the vent area in the rear of the tunic (four buttons
total), and on the shoulder boards; this means all
buttons are properly matched and original to the tunic.
The shoulder boards are gold rope and have the enameled
device for St. George as does the Kokarde of the visor
cap, rather than that one would see for an officer. The
shoulder boards are mounted to the tunic by means of a
brass disc and cotter pin type of arrangement which I
find very unusual. Each button has a cross on it. The
Feldgrau material is absolutely sumptuous to the touch.
As with all of the personal belongings of Alfons I have
never seen materials of the quality used here unless they
were to other members of royal families. The tunic has
blue trim; the lapels that fold back and can be buttoned
down in that position are also blue.
The
visor cap has the single Kokarde of Bavaria and, unlike
other Imperial German visor caps, has the Kokarde for St.
George as opposed to the Reich Kokarde. The cap has a
wide blue band on the head and a single smaller blue trim
on the top of the hat. Alfons’ Cypher appears in the
silk liner of the cap. The cap shows very light use with
a little bit of sweat staining on the leather of the
sweatband.
The trousers have a thin red
stripe and a button fly in the front. They are of the highest quality.
All three items are in
the finest condition and make for a rare uniform grouping to
a member of the Bavarian Royalty.
$8,495.00
(Click here for more images)
20-192
PAIR OF PRINZ ALFONS’ EPAULETTES - 1.
SCHWERES-REITER-REGIMENT - IN THE RANK OF MAJOR BAVARIA.
Once
again our old friend Prinz Alfons (1862-1933) of Bavaria makes an appearance
on the pages of Der Rittmeister Militaria. Prinz Alfons was Prinz Adalbert of
Bavaria’s second son. Although a House of Wittelsbach member, Prinz Alfons was
well down on the Bavarian throne’s successor list. After serving as Prinz
Regent for years, Ludwig III was elevated to König (when "Mad" Ludwig II died). This meant Kronprinz Ruprecht became the
Bavarian heir apparent. Of course, he never became king because the empire
fell in 1918. Prinz Alfons joined the Army in 1891 as a major in 1.
Schweres-Reiter-Regiment Prinz Karl von Bayern. The regiment was founded
in 1814. It was garrisoned in the capital of Munich, where it was assigned to
the 1. Bavarian ArmeeKorps. In 1892 Prinz Alfons became the commander
and oberst of 1. Schweres-Reiter-Regiment Prinz Karl von Bayern.
Ultimately, he was promoted to General der Kavallerie, and served as the 7.
Chevaulegers-Regiment Prinz Alfons’s Inhaber (Regimental Chef).
This regiment was established in 1905 and named for Prinz Alfons. It was based
at Straubing, where it was attached to the III. Bavarian ArmeeKorps.
Prinz Alfons was never a front-line military commander, but as a royal he
served in an à la Suite capacity. He held no
official command during WW I.
This pair of epaulettes belonged to Prinz Alfons when he served as a
major in 1. Schweres-Reiter-Regiment
Prinz Karl von Bayern. They are
clearly for this regiment. We can tell by the epaulettes’ silver moons. While
the epaulettes are similar to those of its sister regiment, 2.
Schweres Reiter-Regiment Erzherzog Franz Ferdinand von Österreich-Este (founded in 1815 and garrisoned at
Landshut), ITS moons are gilt. The material on the obverse is
red. The rank of major is confirmed by the dangling silver trim hanging from
its edges, (which was used for the three ranks of major, oberstleutnant, and
oberst).
Blue thread in the bullion trim also confirms them as Bavarian. These are some
of the small details necessary for identifying shoulder boards/epaulettes’
regiments, especially when cyphers or regimental designations are not present.
The epaulettes’ backing is a matching red. Overall, they are in very
fine condition. The shoulder boards are housed in their original storage
carton. The carton is quite large in order to properly accommodate these large
epaulettes. A pedestal in its interior is where they are mounted and secured
when they are not in use. The lid of the box has a white label on which is
neatly penned "No II - 19 April 1891." This is the date of either the
entrance into the regiment, or when they were acquired. The designation "No
II" was for Prinz Alfons’ valet, to make sure that he assembled the
correct regalia for a given uniform. The inside lid of the carton has
"Prinz Alfons von Bayern," along with a Wittelsbach Crown and Stole over
his name. A large white tag inside the lid proclaims that they come from the
Christian Block workshops of Munich. Block (as noted on the label)
was an official provider to the royal house. This is a great set in top
condition. It would make a fine addition to any collection.
$1,895.00
(Click here for more images)
20-106 PRESENTATION
SILVER DESK NOTE BOOK AND PAPER PAD TO PRINZ ALFONS OF
BAVARIA.
Often we feel like Prinz
Alfons is an "old friend" of ours. Over time we
have been pleased to offer a number of his personal items on
our pages. Among these items have been his General der
Kavallerie pickelhaube complete with the dress parade
feathers, as well as the storage boxes for his helmet and the
parade feathers. We have also had a few offbeat items, such
as one of his ultra-well-made, high-quality, leather valises,
which came from a luggage merchant in Switzerland. We
currently are offering a that once belonged to him. Alfons
was born on 24 January 1862
and died on 8 January 1933.
Although he was a general in the Bavarian cavalry, he was not
a true front-line commander, as were some members of German
royalty. He was actually better-known in the field of science
and mathematics. He was honored in 1905 by being named the
Regimental Chef and patron of 7.
Chevaulegers-Regiment Prinz Alfons.
This was a great tribute to him by the Prinz Regent and the
War Ministry. Today we are offering a superb, high-grade
silver note book and pad that was presented to him on the
occasion of his 70th
birthday. This would have been 24 January
1932, which was a little less than a
year before he passed away. This magnificent desk piece was
presented to him by the officers, medical staff and
veterinarians of "his" regiment. The case, which
measures 6 3/8" x 4 1/4," is engraved at the case
top with his Royal Cypher. Below reads the following
dedication: "Ihrem
Durchlauchitigsten Regimentsinhaber ZUM 70. Geburtstage In
Alter Unwandelbarer Treue Und Verehrung Die Offiziere,
Sanitäts, Und Veterinäroffiziere Des K.B. Chevaulegers -
Regiments "Prinz Alfons."
This piece is both jeweler and .925 silver hallmarked.
Opening up the cover of the note pad, we see that virtually
the entire pad of original paper is in place! I do not know
the circumstances of Alfons’ health at the time. It is
entirely possible that with less than one more year to live,
he had little occasion to use this magnificent presentation
piece. As one would expect, the caliber of this piece is
stunning. Even nearly fifteen years after the war’s end
[the monarchy’s end as well(!)], Alfons’ former
officers still respected him enough to want to buy the best.
Until you claim this item, it will reside on my desk. I can
tell you that it looks splendid sitting near my computer
monitor. I am sure it would look equally as appealing next to
yours. Perhaps you can find some refills for the paper pads,
and YOU can work like a Prince!
$1,550.00. . . .
(Click here for more images)
20-218 BAVARIAN PRINZ ALFONS’ CASED URKUNDE -
HONORARY PRESIDENT - ARTILLERY VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION - DILLINGEN.
Over the years I have tried to bring you many different types of royalty
items. While I have offered many items from Kaiser Wilhelm II and other key
members of German royalty, I have always had a soft place in my heart for
Prinz Alfons of Bavaria. I will not task you here with his history, since it
is well-chronicled elsewhere on this website. I will say that Prinz
Alfons served as regimental chef to several regiments. Today we are offering a
unique urkunde (award document). This document was issued to Prinz
Alfons in September 1924. The document made him the honorary Ehrenpräsident
(President) of the Artillerie-Vereinigung des Bezirks Dillingen. As I
understand it, this was a veteran’s organization for former members of
Artillerie-Regiments. I cannot stress too strongly this urkunde’s
exquisite beauty.
The document (actually, two documents) is housed in a sumptuous,
dark-blue leather folio. The folio measures 13 1/2" x 10 1/4." The folio’s front is
trimmed and embellished in gold. Pasted onto its center is a hand painted,
full-color profile of a cannon, with its barrel elevated and ready to fire.
Some shells are stacked around it. The cannon’s image is enclosed within a
hand-painted border of blue and gold, embellished with blue oak and laurel
leaves. Stylized "nails" decorate the four corners in Bavaria’s and Germany’s
national colors. The small painting is then set within a gold-trimmed frame on
the folio’s front.
As one opens the folio, the two parts of the document are revealed. Each part
is made of a high-quality velum. The left-hand document measures 13" x 9
1/2." The
first thing that appears is a hand painted or a water-colored image of a watch
tower within a small city. Below that, in the most beautiful calligraphy, is
the first part of the award document. It has been executed in black ink. Below
that in regal red is the name "S. K. H. Prinz Alfons v. Bayern." Not
only is it done in red ink, but each of the letters is painstakingly trimmed
in gold. This portion of the document is dated 28 September 1924.
The right-hand document displays another hand painted or water-colored image,
this one of a castle in the moonlight. Beneath the picture the urkunde’s
text continues in black ink. Prinz Alfons and his title of Ehrenpräsident are again listed in red ink trimmed with gold. This side of the document
is dated 21 December 1924. It bears the signatures of several officials
of either the group and/or the city. Finally, a black rubber stamp has been
applied that shows the organization’s name. For being nearly
eighty-five-years-old, the leather folio and the two documents are in amazing
condition. Even if documents are not your primary interest, please take a few
moments to look at the attached photos and see the quality and workmanship
that went into this set.
$1,495.00
(Click
here for more images)
20-19 URKUNDE TO PRINZ ALFONS.
This is a very ornate Urkunde to Prinz Alfons of Bavaria by
"The Geographische Gesllschaft München"
(Geographic Society in Munich). This document measures 20
½" x 16" matted. The document within the matte
measures 11" x 14". The document is dated 26 May
1900 and is signed by two officials from the organization
saluting Alfons’ efforts on behalf of the society. A
very fine red wax seal is also applied at the bottom of the
document. The document is wrapped in plastic, is well
preserved, and in excellent condition. $395.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Prinz Franz
20-226 PRINZ FRANZ OF BAVARIA’S EPAULETTES - REGIMENTAL
COMMANDER AND OBERST - INFANTERIE-REGIMENT Nr
2
- BAVARIA - ORIGINAL
STORAGE CASE.
Prinz Franz (1875-1957) of Bavaria
was Kronprinz Ruprecht’s (1869-1955) younger brother. Their father was König
Ludwig III (1845-1921) of Bavaria. Like his older brother Prinz Ruprecht,
Prinz Franz had a military career, although it was less distinguished. Both
brothers commanded the 2. Infanterie-Regiment Kronprinz at different
times. This very proud regiment was founded in 1682, making it one of the
Bavarian Army’s two oldest infantry regiments. It was garrisoned in München
and attached to the Bavarian I. Armeekorps. Prinz Ruprecht commanded
the regiment in 1899, until he was promoted to generalmajor and assumed other
responsibilities. Ultimately, Prinz Ruprecht achieved the rank of
Generalfeldmarschall. I do not have the exact dates when Prinz Franz commanded
the 2. Infanterie-Regiment Kronprinz. It was from before WW I to
slightly before or after WW I erupted. He then was promoted to generalmajor
and commanded an infantry brigade throughout the war.
Each of the epaulettes is framed by a gilt "moon." Its
background is red (wool) felt. Mounted on the background is the regiment’s
massive crowned cypher. It is so large it spills over the gilt "moon frame’s"
edges. Flanking the cypher are two pips indicating an oberst’s rank. Silver
ringlets hang down from the frame. This adornment was used only on a major’s,
oberstleutnant’s, or oberst’s epaulettes. Whether for a lower or higher rank,
all other epaulettes were significantly different. The epaulette’s "tongue"
sports silver bullion tape embedded with blue, further confirming the
epaulette is Bavarian. Each epaulette features a plain, gold-toned button.
When one turns them over, they display the typical Bavarian washer and cotter
pin securing them to the tunic. The reverse sports the same red material as is
present on the obverse.
These beautiful epaulettes come in their original storage
case. No markings whatsoever appear for Prinz Franz either on or in the case.
Inside is a pedestal on which they sit. A nifty little ribbon secures them
with a little bow. I really like these epaulettes. They hail from a less well
known Wittelsbach prince. When his older brother, Kronprinz Albrecht, died in
1955, Prinz Franz became the Bavarian
throne’s pretender until his death in 1957. Included with the
epaulettes is a copy from the Rangliste that shows Prinz Franz as
oberst and commander of 2. Infanterie-Regiment Kronprinz.
Interestingly, his older brother, Kronprinz Ruprecht, was the regiment’s
Inhaber (its honorary oberst and patron)!
$2,895.00
(Click here for more images)
Saxony
Items Relating to King Friedrich
August III
20-152
KING FRIEDRICH AUGUST PAIR OF DRESS EPAULETTES IN THE RANK
OF GENERALFELDMARSCHALL
IN THE
ORIGINAL STORAGE BOX - SAXONY.
Here, we are offering a perfectly sublime
pair of Generalfeldmarschall’s dress ("banjo-style") epaulettes from
Saxony’s King Friedrich August III (1865-1932). These epaulettes date from 1912 to 1918,
when the King was Saxony’s only Generalfeldmarschall. As is typical for
a general’s rank (generalmajor and above), the epaulettes are MASSIVE. Each
epaulettes gigantic, descending silver ringlets. Gilt-toned "moons" shine above
this. The narrow-striped, silver, metallic material atop the epaulettes is of the
highest quality. Magnificent, crossed, Generalfeldmarschall’s batons are
centered over the silver material. Each baton measures an impressive 2 1/4" in length. A
special, Saxon-style general’s button is attached to the end of each epaulette.
These buttons are unique to Saxon generals.
The epaulettes have a red wool underlay. Gilt attaching devices that
affix the epaulettes to a tunic are evident in the underlay. Each of the
attaching devices bears its Dresden manufacturer’s name. Also on the reverse
is a leather liner where the silver ringlets are attached.
These extremely impressive epaulettes come housed in their original
storage box. The box is lined in yellow cotton, with a red cotton pillow-type
base to protect the epaulettes. Tie downs are present to secure the
epaulettes. Another yellow pillow lies atop the epaulettes to further cushion
and protect them. This is an amazing piece of history. It reveals the luxury
and majesty of an Imperial German King.
$8,495.00
(Click
here for more images)
20-188
PAIR OF GENERALFELDMARSCHALL SHOULDER BOARDS - ULANE
N-REGIMENT Nr 16 - KING
FRIEDRICH AUGUST III - SAXONY.
This spectacular
pair of shoulder boards was once the property of König Friedrich August III
(1865-1932) of Saxony. König Friedrich August III was the Inhaber
(Regimental Chef) of Ulanen-Regiment Hennings von Treffenfeld (Altmäkisches)
Nr 16. This was a Prussian regiment, raised in1866. It was garrisoned at Salzwedel-Gardelegen, where it was a part of the IV. ArmeeKorps.
As the regiment’s honorary oberst, he wore a tunic identical to "his" men,
only with his Generalfeldmarschall’s rank. This is important to know. If
Friedrich August III had worn shoulder boards from one of his Saxon regiments’
tunics, they would have called for green chevrons on the silver bullion,
rather than the correct Prussian black on these. [This may be an obvious
observation to you more advanced collectors, but for those who are not as well
versed in shoulder boards, it is good bit of information to tuck away. Those
who try to fake shoulder boards may not be fully aware of their nuances. This
is one way to catch them before they catch you]!
It is also important to know that König Friedrich August III received the rank
of Generalfeldmarschall on 11 September 1912. This dates the shoulder
boards from 1912 to 1916, even though these are M-1902 shoulder
boards. The M-1915 feldgrau shoulder boards were later
introduced to replace this style and more correctly match feldgrau
tunics. While it is possible that he wore these after 1916, their approximate
era should be noted. They would have been worn on an ulanka in the
Prussian pattern.
Each of the shoulder boards measures 5" x 2." The basic design is two gold
bullion ropes with a silver bullion rope between them. As previously stated,
each of the silver bullion ropes has black chevrons designed into it. This
confirms their status as Prussian. A silver crown also appears, representing
the House of Wettin, Saxony’s Royal House. Directly below the crown is a
beautiful pair of Generalfeldmarschall’s crossed batons. They are made of
silver. One can clearly see the alternating crowns and eagles on them.
Superimposed over the batons is König Georg’s royal cypher, "GR," for Georg Rex. It was introduced to the regiment in 1902, when his father
assumed the throne. Each shoulder board’s underlay is dark blue. One of the
shoulder boards has some scattered moth nips on the underlay. The condition of
the boards’ obverse is excellent plus. A gentle toning or patina appears on
each board. They are fantastic attention-getters. Material for Saxon royalty
(especially the Königs) is quite difficult-to-find.
$9,495.00
(Click here for more images)
20-198 PAIR OF SHOULDER
BOARDS TO KING FRIEDRICH AUGUST III IN THE RANK OF GENERALFELDMARSCHALL FOR
INFANTERIE-REGIMENT Nr 101 -
SAXONY.
Friedrich
August III (1865-1932) was the final king of the Kingdom of Saxony. He
was one of four kings (the other three Kingdoms being
Bavaria, Württemberg, and Prussia) in Imperial Germany. He
assumed the throne in 1904 from his father King Georg (1828-1902) and was the final king of Saxony
through the end of the war in 1918. Friedrich August III wore
these shoulder boards as Regimental Chef of Königl.
Sächs. 2. Grenadier-Regiment Nr 101 Kaiser Wilhelm. König
von Preußen. This regiment was the
second Saxon Infantry/Grenadier Regiment raised in 1670 and
was garrisoned in Dresden. These shoulder boards are very
ornate. They feature the Cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm I (with a
crown over it), and the crossed batons of a
Generalfeldmarschall. Friedrich August III was the only Generalfeldmarschall
of Saxony. He was promoted to that rank in 1912 and was the only Saxon
Generalfeldmarschall during WW I. The shoulder boards are in very fine condition and
have been lightly worn. They are, of course, of the slip-on
variety and are of the highest quality, as befitting the
shoulder boards of a German king. Very difficult to find. I
am most pleased to be able to offer them to you today.
$4,995.00
(Click here for more images)
23-50 PAIR OF SHOULDER
BOARDS BELONGING TO KING FRIEDRICH AUGUST III O
R KING GEORG AS A GENERALFELDMARSCHALL - SAXONY.
This is a first-rate pair of shoulder boards
that once belonged to either King Georg or King Friedrich August III as a Generalfeldmarschall in the Saxon Army.
They were the only men to hold that rank from 1902 onward with the death of
King Albert (1828-1902) the brother of King Georg (1832-1902). These
shoulder boards would date from approximately 1902-1918. They show
appropriate aging for items that have seen extensive use and
are more than 100-years-old. The shoulder boards have
beautifully-toned gilt and silver embroidered ropes. In the
center is a very handsome pair of crossed batons for a
Generalfeldmarschall. There is a gilt button in each board.
The underlay of the boards is red. This is a high-caliber
pair of shoulder boards. These are far more difficult to find
than Prussian shoulder boards. They are VERY fairly priced.
$3,995.00
(Click here for more images)
18-301 MEISSEN PLATE - CORONATION -
KÖNIG FRIEDRICH AUGUST III - SAXONY.
This is a
fine porcelain plate from the noted manufacturer, Meissen. It was
created to commemorate Friedrich August III’s assumption of the Kingdom of
Saxony’s throne in 1904. Friedrich August III (1865-1932) was Saxony’s final
king. The plate measures 10" in diameter. It has a sunken center. Its edge is
trimmed in gold. The plate is ornately hand painted in blue. Near the gilt
trim on the edge is a band of oak leaves and acorns. Inside on the sunken
portion of the plate, more oak leaves serve as a wreath around the King’s
Cypher, "AR" (Augustus Rex) and Saxony’s Coat-of-Arms. Below it is the
date, 15 Okt. 1904, when Friedrich August III ascended to the throne
after his father, König Georg (1832-1904) died. The plate’s reverse is
attractively hallmarked for Meissen with the firm’s crossed swords. It
is a fetching porcelain item, and a tribute to the King of Saxony, who led his
country during WW I.
$495.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to King/Kronprionz Georg
20-186
KRONPRINZ GEORG - M-1872 GENERALOBERST TUNIC - SAXONY.
Kronprinz Georg (1832-1904) assumed the throne of Saxony in 1902. He
became König when his brother, König Albert, died in 1902. König Georg
ruled for a short, two-year-period. Upon his death he was succeeded to the
throne by his son, Friedrich August III (1865-1932). [Friedrich August III was
Saxony’s final König, until he and all other German royalty abdicated in
November 1918]. During the Franco-Prussian War, Prinz Georg (who then was
not yet Kronprinz) commanded the XII. ArmeeKorps, which was
primarily a Saxon ArmeeKorps. He had also commanded troops in the
War of 1866 against Prussia. (Saxony had been Bavaria and Austria’s ally
in that conflict).
In his command of the XII. ArmeeKorps, Prinz Georg was a
Generaloberst. He remained in this rank until his promotion to
Generalfeldmarschall on 15 March 1888. Since today ‘s offering is
an M-1872 tunic, we can date our tunic to the period from 1872 to
1888. It seems logical that Kronprinz Georg would have stopped wearing
this tunic in 1888, and acquired others with the correct rank to which
he had been promoted.
The tunic is in wonderful condition for being 125+-years-old. The tunic’s
body is a rich and lustrous wool, colored in the classic dunkel-blau
(dark-blue). TWELVE gilt Saxon general’s buttons run down the
tunic’s center. These highly ornate buttons are unique to the Saxon
general’s tunics. Two more of these buttons adorn each sleeve. Both the
collar and the sleeves are heavily embroidered with a Prussian general’s
style of gold bullion acorns and oak leaves against a red base. In my
opinion, it is the handsomest and most impressive bullion embroidery that
can be seen on ANY tunic. The left breast sports a set of loops for a
medal or ribbon bar. The loops measure 5" from end to end, and would
accommodate a very large bar. Below this are four more sets of sewn-in
loops to accommodate Breast Stars and other decorations.
The shoulder boards display an interesting arrangement typical of Saxon
general’s tunics from the period. The wearer’s left shoulder sports a
coiled spiral of bullion that serves as the shoulder board. The right
shoulder displays a very elegant, contrasting combination. First is a
Generaloberst’s shoulder board, with three frosted silver pips. Attached
to its end is a complete Saxon general’s aiguillette. This very
ornate, exquisitely beautiful accouterment extends down from the shoulder
board and flows onto the tunic’s right chest. Its bullion ropes are
massive. Attached to the aiguillette’s tips are gorgeous, crowned
extensions. The entire aiguillette is then attached to the tunic’s
second button. It is simply stunning. It sets off the tunic and adds to
its special overall look.
As handsome as is the tunic’s obverse, it is just as delightful on
the reverse. The same embroidered bullion from the collar and sleeves has
been worked onto both sides of the vent area! The same ornate Saxon
general’s buttons appear on both sides of the flap. They number six in
all. The tunic’s interior is equally impressive. All the detail one would
expect for a Kronprinz is equally lavished on the interior. I have never
seen a liner quite like this. It is made from a heavy, quilted, satin
(another variation of silk). The interior is complete and virtually
trouble free. Some sweat staining shows in the arm pits, so it
definitely was worn. The tunic’s neck displays a number "3"
sewn in place. This was to help Georg’s valet lay out the proper uniform
when so instructed by his master. From a master list bearing this number,
the man pulled the correct, corresponding headdress, boots, decorations,
belt, etc.
It is a stunning tunic, and clearly the most historically important army
tunic we have ever offered. Please look closely at the many photographs
that accompany our description of a tunic for a man who would become King.
$15,995.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Prinz Johann Georg
20-189 PRINZ JOHANN GEORG OF SAXONY REGIMENTAL CHEF’S
PICKELHAU
BE- INFANTRIE-REGIMENT Nr 107 - SAXONY, COMPLETE WITH
SERVICE SPIKE AND PARADE FEATHERS. Today we are offering one of the most
unbelievable pickelhauben we have offered in some time. We have been
privileged to offer headdresses from the royalty of Prussia, Bavaria,
Württemberg, Baden, and Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Today we proudly present our
first pickelhaube from the Kingdom of Saxony’s royalty. It is the personal
helmet of Prinz Johann Georg, Herzog of Saxony. At first glance it looks
like a standard Saxon infantry officer’s pickelhaube, albeit of very
high-quality. It is the helmet Prinz Johann Georg wore when he was with
8. Infantrie-Regiment Königl. Sächs Prinz Johann Georg Nr 107. This
proud regiment was raised in 1708. It was garrisoned at Leipzig, where it
was assigned to the XIX. Armeekorps.
[Please note that Prinz Johann Georg was the Regimental Chef (Regiment chefs)
of this regiment. When he rode with the regiment, he was not a
general (although he actually was promoted to a General der Infantrie
on 13 September 1911). Instead, he served as the regiment’s
honorary oberst. The regiment had a true oberst who retained the regiment’s
tactical command, while Prinz Johann Georg was the Inhaber, the
regiment’s patron. Therefore, he would NOT have worn a Saxon General’s
helmet (Even though he WAS a Saxon General). Are we confusing you
yet]? While a Saxon General’s parade helmet sported vulture feathers (Saxony
was the ONLY state in Germany to do so), the Regimental Chef
displayed the more traditional green and white cock feathers on his
trichter. This distinguished him from all other regimental officers, even
though his helmet was identical to theirs.
Let me begin this description by stating that the helmet is in
astonishingly ravishing condition. I say it now so I do not have to
reiterate that each section is in magnificent condition. The entire
helmet is in gorgeous condition. It was lightly used by the Prinz. It has
been lovingly cared for by the assorted collectors who may have owned it
since it passed from Prinz Johann Georg or his family’s possession. I wish
to point out some of its fascinating highlights. The helmet’s body is made
of fiberglass, which was VERY expensive at the time, far more
expensive than the traditional leather. The shine fiberglass helmets
produced was amazing. One could polish a leather helmet all day and never
hope to achieve the finish of a fiberglass helmet! The helmet’s
furniture is finely gilded. The wappen’s sumptuous frosted finish
just sparkles. The spike is extra tall (in the Saxon style). When it is
mounted on the helmet, it glitters like a gold beacon. The state and reich’s
kokarden gleam like miniature jewels. The gilt trichter is especially
handsome, and its green and white cock feathers are a delight. I just love
how the trichter and feathers flow down the pickelhaube when they are
mounted. When set properly, they frame the dazzling wappen exquisitely. Inside the helmet is an ultra-high-caliber,
leather sweatband. The first-rate, white, silk liner is pristine. Mounted to
the silk liner is the gilt cypher "J." The helmet dates from the
period of around 1910 to 1914. This is an historically important pickelhaube
that would be a true highlight of any pickelhauben collection. Also included
with the helmet but which is NOT original to the grouping is a Pickelhaube
storage case AND the case to store the feathers. These are included with our
compliments to protect the helmet and feathers if you so wish.
$21,995.00
(Click
here for more images)
Braunschweig
20-172 ADELSBRIEF - DUCHY OF BRAUNSCHWEIG.
The Adelsbrief was one of the most important documents to come from
Imperial Germany. It was a document granting knighthood to a man by the head
of state. No greater honor could be granted. The man and all his descendants
would wear the coveted "von" attached to their name. While their
formats differed slightly, the basic information and general presentation were
quite similar regardless of the state. We currently have Adelsbrief
available from both Prussia and Bavaria. Today we are offering a most
interesting Adelsbrief from the Duchy of Braunschweig. Braunschweig was
a part of the Kingdom of Hannover. The House of Hannover has a direct tie to
Great Britain. King George III was King of Hannover and Great Britain and
Ireland. This is the same George III who ruled during the American Revolution
and the Napoleonic Wars.
The Kingdom of Hannover and the Duchy of Braunschweig both suffered a terrible
fate in 1866. In the final war consolidating Germany, the Prussians and
several other Northern States battled it out with Austria and several of the
Southern German States. Unfortunately for them, Hannover and
Braunschweig allied themselves with the Austrians. When the war ended in a
resounding Prussian victory, both Hannover and Braunschweig were annexed into
Prussia. This included their military. Hannover, and her vassal state Braunschweig, had one of the finest armies in Germany. Braunschweig was
administered by Prussian princes from 1866 until 1913, when Duke Ernst August
of Braunschweig married Kaiser Wilhelm II’s only daughter, Viktoria Louise.
Wilhelm II returned nominal control of Braunschweig to Ernst August, although
a Prussian hand remained firmly in place behind him.
The Adelsbrief we are offering today was awarded to Dr. Jur. Carl
Friedrich Wilhelm Albert von Otto. Von Otto (1836-1921) was the
Staatsminister (State’s Minister) from Braunschweig. The Prinz Regent for
Braunschweig in 1898 was Prinz Albrecht von Preußen. He was the member of the
Prussian royal family who was given authority to oversee the administration of
Braunschweig, and was thus its acting Duke. The award was formally made on
19 April 1898 in San Remo. In addition to the actual Adelsbrief, a
transmittal document from Prinz Albrecht to von Otto is enclosed, which bears
the Prinz Regent’s signature. This document is housed in a stiff envelope to
protect it and was sealed with the House of Hohenzollern’s red wax seal (which
remains intact). The envelope was opened by cutting a slit at the to
p so as
not to damage the seal.
The Adelsbrief is housed in a high quality carton, measuring 20
3/4" x 12."
The carton has a flap that lays down and allows the Adelsbrief to
easily slide from the carton. A second compartment houses the cased seal
separately from the Adelsbrief.
The Adelsbrief is very large and impressive, measuring 15
3/4" x 10 15/16." The
Adelsbrief body is enclosed in a top-flight, leather folio. The
attractive, brown leather features three, ornate, gold sections. In the center
is "Adelsbrief." Both the front and back covers are beautifully lined
in watermarked silk. Inside the front cover is the name of the Braunschweig
firm that created the folio. It held "House" status, which means it served
Braunschweig’s royal family. As the folio is opened, the recipient’s name, von
Otto, and position appear, rendered in exquisite, multicolored calligraphy.
Next, his birth year (1836) and other personal information again are depicted
in the most elaborate and colorful calligraphy imaginable. The following page
bears the date and signature of Prinz Albrecht von Preußen. Next comes the
exclusive coat-of-arms created for the von Otto family, which they could use
from that point in perpetuity.
Attached to the folio by a yellow and blue cord is a circular brass container
measuring 4 1/8" in diameter. Attached to the brass container are two small yellow
and blue "portopees." When separated, the two container halves (they are
threaded and open by unscrewing) reveal a white wax seal, measuring 3
13/16" in
diameter. It is the House of Hohenzollern’s Coat-of-Arms (not the
former House of Hannover). This is a very rare example from royalty and
nobility. Far fewer men were knighted from a small Duchy like Braunschweig
than from any of the four kingdoms.
$5,495.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Duke Ernst
August
20-145 FELDGRAU UNIFORM (ATTILA AND TROUSERS) GROUPING -
HUSAREN-REGIMENT Nr 17 - FOR THE DUKE (HERZOG) ERNST AUGUST -
BRAUNSCHWEIG. This week we are offering one of the most significant
uniform groupings we have ever had. It is from Braunschweigisches
Husaren-Regiment Nr 17, which was founded in 1809. The regiment was
garrisoned in the capital city of Braunschweig, and assigned to the X.
Armeekorps. Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regiment Nr 17 possessed a
fabled history. Among the battles and campaigns in which it participated
were, the Peninsula Campaign (Spain and Portugal) with
Wellington, Waterloo (again with Wellington), and Mars La Tour, during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71. This regiment, along with
Infantrie-Regiment Nr 92, and a single artillery battalion,
constituted the Duchy of Braunschweig’s entire military.
Braunschweig once was part of the Kingdom of Hannover. Hannover and
Braunschweig were absorbed into Prussia after they found themselves on the
losing side of the 1866 war between Prussia and Austria. This status
continued until 1912, when Duke (Herzog) Ernst August of Braunschweig
married Kaiser Wilhelm II’s only daughter. Braunschweig was then afforded
greater independence, but very much remained a Prussian vassal state.
Our offering today is that very Duke’s feldgrau tunic (attila)
and trousers for Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regiment Nr 17. This is
an important and exciting grouping on a number of levels. First, attilas
are highly-prized by collectors, especially when found in feldgrau.
Second, to find one in a general officer’s rank that once belonged to a
German HEAD-OF-STATE (the Kaiser’s son-in-law, no-less) is extra-special.
The tunic is made of ultra-high-grade gabardine wool in the highly-desirable feldgrau. Its tresses are silver with black chevrons
interwoven throughout. The rosette and barrel buttons are cloth rather than
prewar metal. Two slash pockets decorate the tunic’s front. The collar is
trimmed in the same fabric as the tresses. The tunic’s shoulders feature a
Prussian Generalmajor’s shoulder boards with crowned buttons. Many sewn-in
loops for orders, decorations and ribbon bars dot the tunic’s front left
chest area. The one for the ribbon bar is 6" long from end to end.
Approximately TEN different sets of loops appear to accommodate all of the
other awards worn by Ernst August. In fact, an Ernst August War Service
Cross 1st Class is attached to one of the sets!
Three moth nips appear on the tunic’s obverse. (We will detail them in our
accompanying photos). Two small nips also show on each of the tunic’s
sleeves. The tunic’s reverse repeats the same tresses motif, as well
as the cloth rosette buttons. It is in exquisite condition. Inside, the
tunic boasts a sumptuous silk liner that excels what other officers
commissioned from a tailor (the perks of royalty)! Two pockets show up
inside the tunic.
Its collar is quite unusual. A white collar liner is affixed to the tunic’s
collar by three snaps. "L/M F.A. III 4708" is stenciled in black on the white
attached inner collar. About three to four inches immediately below that "R
IV" is embroidered in red thread. This is no doubt a clothing numbering
system to assist a valet with knowing which tunic to pull for his master on
a given day. We see such a system with Kaiser Wilhelm II’s tunics (especially
helpful for his valet, since he had more than 200 from which he could
draw!), which appear on the market occasionally.
Although the tunic is quite interesting, I find the trousers that go with it
very appealing. They are the classic riding breeches favored by Hussars.
They are quite wide at the hip and thigh area, then narrow down
substantially on the leg and ankle. They sport a button-front (no zippers in
German uniforms at this time!), with five buttons at the front and two in
the rear. They also have a buckle adjustment at the rear. Three buttons at
each ankle complete the blousing effect. Finally, a single, narrow, red
stripe down the outside of each pant leg confirms the general officer’s
status. This is a lovely, historic grouping. If a visor cap or busby were
added to the display (even if they were not the Duke’s) it would make the
uniform grouping even more striking.
$16,995.00
(Click
here for more images)
20-164 PAIR OF
SHOULDER BOARDS FOR HERZOG ERNST AUGUST AS REGIMENTAL CHEF OF
INFANTRIE-REGIMENT Nr 92 - BRAUNSCHWEIG.
Over the years the two regiments of the Duchy of Braunschweig have always
been particular favorites of mine. Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regiment Nr
17 and Braunschweigisches Infantrie-Regiment Nr 92 have always been at the
top of my list. They were two of the four regiments in the German army
which featured Totenkopf on their headdress. Both of the regiments saw
extensive service in the Napoleonic wars and the Duke of Braunschweig
("The Black Duke") Wilhelm fell leading Braunschweigisches
Husaren-Regiment Nr 17 at the Battle of Waterloo. The Duchy of
Braunschweig was in fact a vassal state of the Kingdom of Hannover. In the
war of 1866 between Prussia and Saxony, Hannover sided with Saxony along
with several other German states (Würrtemberg and Bavaria among them).
When the war was over and Prussia emerged victorious, Würrtemberg,
Bavaria, and Saxony survived without losing territory. Hannover and
Braunschweig were not as lucky and their territory and armies were
"acquired" by Prussia. Braunschweig remained under the direct supervision
of the Prussian royal family until 1913. Ernst August’s father renounced
his claim to the throne, and paved the way for his son,
Ernst August, to become the ruler of Braunschweig. By an act of the
Imperial Diet in 1885 the elder Duke was prevented from assuming the
throne. At that time Ernst August (1887-1953) became Herzog of
Braunschweig which was then considered an independent Duchy. This event
took place on 23 October 1913. Ernst August married Princess Viktoria
Luise (1892-1980) the only daughter of Kaiser Wilhelm II and she was a
Princess of Prussia. This event took place on 24 May 1913 and paved the
way for the act of October. As the Herzog of Braunschweig Ernst August was
also the Regimental Chef of both of his regiments. As a part of our
special event featuring items from Braunschweig, this week we again share
with you below the complete uniform as worn by Herzog Ernst Herzog as the
Regimental Chef of Braunschweigisches Husaren-Regiment Nr 17. But our
featured item here is a recently acquired pair of shoulder boards which
belonged to Herzog Ernst August as the Regimental Chef of
Braunschweigisches Infantrie-Regiment
Nr 92. These shoulder boards for this regiment are in the rank of
Generalleutnant. They share the same pattern of Prussian general officer
shoulder boards. They have Russian gold and silver bullion roping. The
chevrons which appear on the silver rope are black as are Prussian
shoulder boards. On each shoulder board we further see a crown for
Braunschweig and under the crown we see the royal cypher of Wilhelm of
Braunschweig. Below that cypher we see a single silver pip which confirms
the rank of Generalleutnant. On the reverse we see a red wool backing and
the tabs which permitted the shoulder boards to be installed on the tunic.
These shoulder boards have been gently worn. In looking at them you can
see where they have been installed on a tunic as they are slightly curved
from having been worn. These are superb and historically significant
shoulder boards. We are very proud and excited to offer them to you today.
$3,295.00
(Click
here for more images)
20-170
DINNER PLATE - HERZOG ERNST AUGUST’S PERSONAL SERVICE - BRAUNSCHWEIG.
This is a dinner plate from Duke Ernst August of Braunschweig. It is in the
pattern that was used after his marriage to Princess Viktoria Luise, the
daughter of Kaiser Wilhelm II, in 1913. The plate measures 9" in diameter. It
features a wide red band, and Ernst August’s crowned royal cypher in gold. The
plate is manufacturer hallmarked for KPM on the reverse. It is in very
fine condition.
$1,250.00
(Click here for more images)
Baden
Items Relating to Grand Duke
Friedrich II
20-174 PAIR OF
SHOULDER BOARDS FOR GRAND DUKE
FRIEDRICH II OF BADEN AS A GENERALOBERST IN THE RANK OF GENERALFELDMARSCHALL -
INFANTERIE-REGIMENT Nr 126. This is a splendid pair of
shoulder boards that once belonged to Baden’s Grand Duke Friedrich II.
They are quite interesting, and represent his official position as
Inhaber (Regimental Chef) of 8. Württembergerisches Infanterie-Regiment Nr 126 Großherzog Friedrich von Baden. The regiment
was founded in Württemberg’s Army during 1716. It was garrisoned at
Straßburg i.E., and assigned to the XV. ArmeeKorps. In his position
as Regimental Chef, Friedrich II held the position of Generaloberst in the
rank of Generalfeldmarschall. It was a unique status that usually was honorary, and held separately from conventional military ranks. In
the more traditional German Army lineup, a Generaloberst was equal to a
four-star U.S. Army General. A Generaloberst with direct line
responsibility displayed three pips on his
shoulder boards. The German Army’s ultimate rank was the
Generalfeldmarschall. It was equal to a five-star U.S. Army General. [The
latter rank was given to Dwight Eisenhower and Omar Bradley in WW II. It
has not been used since].
Our current offering exhibits three silver pips for the Generaloberst
portion of the rank on each shoulder board. Between these three
pips are the Generalfeldmarschall’s crossed batons, also in silver. The
crossed batons are the heart and soul of these shoulder boards. They are MAGNIFICENT! Their exquisite detailing is amazing to behold. The
five eagles and five crowns on each baton are in ultra-crisp high-relief.
It is as if someone zapped full-sized batons with a magic wand and
transformed them into perfectly scaled miniatures–the details are so
spectacular. Below the batons one can see the regimental designation
"126," which is also in silver. The final items on the obverse
that we want to point out are the alternating layers of gold and silver in the boards’ rope bullion. The silver bullion contains red threads that
confirm the boards are hail from a Württemberg
Regiment.
The shoulder boards measure a whopping 5" x 2 1/2." The boards’ reverse
features a red felt backing, and the tabs by which this slip-on style was
attached to the tunic. The boards’ silver patina (and I do mean
silver) is resplendent on the pips, batons, and regimental designation.
These shoulder boards are in excellent condition. It is one of the finest
royalty sets we have ever offered. One final note. Shoulder boards from
royalty are becoming ever more popular. Pairs from Kaiser Wilhelm II are
fetching
$10,000+
these days! With the dismal showing in the stock market of late, items
like this make a sound investment, as well as something magnificent to
enjoy.
$5,995.00
(Click here for more images)
20-135
GRAND DUKE FRIEDRICH II OF
BADEN’S SHOULDER BOARDS FOR A GENERALOBERST IN THE RANK OF
GENERALFELDMARSCHALL - BAVARIAN INFANTERIE-REGIMENT Nr 8.
This is a wonderful pair of shoulder boards for Grand Duke (Großherzog)
Friedrich II of Baden. Baden was a Grand Duchy. Along with Hessen-Darmstadt,
it maintained one of the largest armies after the four kingdoms of Prussia,
Bavaria, Saxony, and Württemberg. These shoulder boards were once the
property of Friedrich II in his role as the Regimental Chef (Inhaber)
of 8. Infanterie-Regiment Großherzog Friedrich II von Baden.
The regiment was garrisoned in Metz and raised in 1753. It was assigned to
the Bavarian III. Armeekorps.
Friedrich II wore these shoulder boards when he was with "his" regiment as
its honorary Oberst. They are identical in design to any other of the
regimental officers, sporting blue chevrons on the silver bullion. Each
shoulder board displays the regimental designation "8," and the four
silver rank pips indicating Friedrich II’s formal status of Generaloberst
in the rank of Generalfeldmarschall. These are a resplendent, rare pair
of shoulder boards for those of you with an interest in Baden, or her larger
neighbor, Bavaria.
$2,495.00
(Click
here for more images)
Oldenburg
Items Relating to Grand Duke
Friedrich August
20-190 PAIR OF M-1910 FELDGRAU
SHOULDER BOARDS IN THE RANK OF GENERA
L der KAVELLERIE FOR
DRAGONER-REGIMENT Nr 19 GRAND DUKE FRIEDRICH AUGUST - OLDENBURG.
This is a pair of M-1910 Feldgrau shoulder boards in the rank of General
der Kavellerie. These shoulder boards were the personal property of Grand
Duke Friedrich August of Oldenburg. The Grand Duchy of Oldenburg was a
relatively small duchy. Their militaria was also correspondingly small and
they fielded one cavalry regiment, Oldneburgisches
Dragoner-Regiment Nr 19 (founded in 1849 and garrisoned in
Oldenburg), one infantry regiment, Oldneburgisches
Infantrie-Regiment Nr 91 (founded in 1813 and garrisoned in
Oldenburg), and two batteries of artillery in Ostfreisisches
Feldartellerie-Regiment Nr 62 (founded in 1899 and garrisoned
in Oldenburg). These units composed the entire military contingent from
Oldenburg. Grand Duke was the regimental chef or Inhaber of
Oldneburgisches Dragoner-Regiment Nr 19 and thus these shoulder
boards would have been for his tunic while riding with his regiment. These
shoulder boards are subdued which was the primary difference for shoulder
boards for use after 1910 in Oldenburg with the introduction of Feldgrau
tunics. These boards are of the slip on variety and bear the crowned royal
cypher "A". Each measures 4" x 1 3/4". They also bear the double pips of a
General der Kavellerie. The backing of the boards are a medium blue. These
are in excellent condition.
Buy this pair of shoulder boards along with the single shoulder board
below and receive a special discount!
$2,395.00
(Click here for more images)
20-191 SINGLE M-1910 FELDGRAU SHOULDER BOARD IN THE RANK OF
GENERAL de
r KAVELLERIE FOR DRAGONER-REGIMENT Nr 19 GRAND DUKE FRIEDRICH AUGUST
- OLDENBURG. This is a single M-1910 Feldgrau shoulder board in the
rank of General der Kavellerie. This shoulder board was the personal property
of Grand Duke Friedrich August of Oldenburg. The Grand Duchy of Oldenburg was
a relatively small Duchy. Their militaria was also correspondingly small and
they fielded one cavalry regiment, Oldneburgisches Dragoner-Regiment
Nr 19 (founded in 1849 and garrisoned in Oldenburg), one infantry
regiment, Oldneburgisches Infantrie-Regiment Nr 91
(founded in 1813 and garrisoned in Oldenburg), and two batteries of artillery
in Ostfreisisches Feldartellerie-Regiment Nr 62 (founded
in 1899 and garrisoned in Oldenburg). These units composed the entire military
contingent from Oldenburg. Grand Duke was the regimental chef or Inhaber of Oldneburgisches Dragoner-Regiment Nr 19 and thus this
shoulder board would have been for his overcoat (larger than the tunic
shoulder boards) while riding with his regiment. This shoulder board is
subdued which was the primary difference for shoulder boards for use after
1910 in Oldenburg with the introduction of Feldgrau tunics. This board is of
the slip on variety and bear the crowned royal cypher "A". The board measures
4 1/2" x 2". It also bears the double pips of a General der Kavellerie. The
backing of the board is a combination of white cotton and gold bullion. This
is in excellent condition. Buy this single shoulder board along with the pair above and receive a special
discount! $925.00
(Click here for more images)
Württemberg
Items Relating to Grand Duke
Robert
20-225 AUSTRIAN GENERAL’S FORE/AFT
CAP - CARTRIDGE BOX - SASH BELT
- DELUXE STORAGE BOX - HERZOG ROBERT -
WÜRTTEMBERG. This week we are offering one of the most impressive
headdress items we ever have acquired. It is a bit different from what we have
offered in the past. As we discuss its virtues, we believe you will see why we
were so drawn to it. Our offering today is a most unusual and beautiful set of
items, which once belonged to Herzog (Duke) Robert of Württemberg (1873–1947).Robert was Herzog (and Generalfeldmarschall) Albrecht of Württemberg’s younger
brother. [Albrecht was a VERY able troop commander, one of three German royal
generalfeldmarschalls commanding large numbers of troops in the field]. When
Robert and Albrecht’s father died in 1917 (he had been the heir apparent to
the Württemberg throne) Albrecht became Württemberg’s Crown Prince. Four years
later in 1921, when Württemberg’s König Wilhelm II died, Albrecht became the
Pretender to the Württemberg throne. Following Albrecht’s death in 1939,
Robert was the Pretender until his death in 1947 (at the age of seventy-four).
In 1900, Robert had married Maria Imaculada Erzherzogin von Österreich in
Vienna. They had no children during their marriage.
Robert first entered the army as a Sekoneleutnant à la Suite in 1891,
when he was assigned to Ulanen-Regiment König Karl (1. Württembergisches)
Nr 19. In 1900, he was promoted to Rittmeister in Dragoner-Regiment
König (2. Württembergisches) Nr 26. In 1905, he was promoted to Major and
Eskadronchef (Squadron Chief) on 2. Pommersches
Ulanen-Regiment Nr 9's staff. He was promoted to Generalmajor à la Suite
of Dragoner-Regiment König (2. Württembergisches) Nr 26 and 2.
Pommersches Ulanen-Regiment Nr 9 in 1913. During WW I, he served as
Kommandeur of 26 (1. Kgl. Württembergisches) Kavallerie Brigade. In
the latter role he commanded four Württemberg cavalry regiments, and served as
a generalmajor. In retirement, he was elevated to the position of
Generalleutnant a.D. in the German Army.
HOWEVER. . .
He had an equivalent position (Feldmarschallleutnant)
in the Austrian Army due to Austria’s longstanding ties with his native
Württemberg AND his marriage to an Austrian royal. Austria’s Kaiser Karl
promoted him to this rank early in 1918. The rank had been used by Prussia
until early in the 19th Century. They dropped it during the
Napoleonic Wars. Austria continued its use until Kaiser Karl abdicated his
throne in 1918, following WWI’s end. In many cases, a Feldmarschallleutnant
was a division commander or staff officer. It was the 4th highest
level for a general officer in the Austrian Army.
Austrian General’s Fore & Aft Cap
This sets the stage for the first piece from Württemberg’s Herzog Robert’s
stunning group. It is an Austrian General’s Fore and Aft Cap. In the German
Navy, such a cap is called a Zweispitz (Two Peaks). The cap is
fur-covered (black) with embroidered gold bullion lavishly applied over much
of its surface from tip to tip. A strip of the embroidered bullion comes over
from the opposite side and boasts a fine, gilt-toned button on its left side.
The button has black thread wrapped around it, and serves as a stabilization
device to hold the general’s plume snugly atop the cap. (It is a very clever
device). Each end of the zweispitz sports a large circular embroidered
bullion device, with five levels of braided rope bullion elevating upward. The
device’s center features a "K" for Kaiser Karl, who assumed the
Austrian throne after Kaiser Franz Josef’s death in 1916. Inside the fore and aft is a superb
white leather sweatband and a white silk liner. Both are certain indications
of royalty. Embossed on the white silk liner is a crowned "R."
I have saved the best for last with this magnificent headdress. A staggeringly
glorious cascade of gree
n feathers flows down from the zweispitz’s top
to cover the cap in its entirety. I have had a miniature zweispitz for
years. I had no idea that it would be as striking as it is on a full-sized
example. As a matter of fact, the person who buys the full-sized example will
receive the miniature with our compliments! The condition of this spectacular
general’s for and aft is very near mint.
I would like to share one final detail of the cap with you. A silk device
accompanies the cap. It is stretched over the cap’s two ends to protect the
magnificent gold bullion of the Kaiser Karl device. Somebody went the extra
mile to protect this item of royal headdress. Please have a look at it in the
accompanying photographs. The fore and aft cap was probably NOT used very
often by Herzog Robert. It has been housed in its case for decades just
waiting for YOU!
Austrian Officer’s Belt/Sash
This is an Austrian Officer sash/belt. It would havee
been suitable for a blue or Feldgrau uniform. While I am
quite used to seeing Prussia’s various belts and sashes, this example blows
away its German counterparts. It is far more ornate and detailed, which
sparked my initial presumption that it was intended for a general officer
rather than one of lower rank.
The belt is made of an extremely heavy, pliable silk or silk blend. Its color
is a rich, dark yellow. The fabric is originally 2 5/8" wide, and its entire
length is decorated with four parallel rows of embroidered black hash marks.
To create the belt, the fabric has been folded in half, leaving a double row
of the black marks on either side. Its brass sizing buckle is decorated with a
gold-toned, crowned, double-headed Austrian Eagle and Kaiser Franz Josef’s
cypher.
Hanging down from the belt’s end are two large tassels that I often compare to"oversized portopees." Each measures 11 1/2" in length from their attachment
point to the very bottom. At the top in high-relief yellow bullion we again
see Franz Josef’s cypher. The opposite side sports another two-headed Austrian
Eagle, this time in high-relief. Below that are the black and yellow thread
ringlets that make up the tassel’s body. The condition of this belt/sash is
excellent plus. Its overall appearance is incredibly sumptuous and gloriously
Imperial.
Austrian Officer Cartridge Box
This is a very handsome cartridge box, appropriate for
an officer. It is ornate
ly detailed and measures
6" x 4." The front cover displays a lovely mirrored finish, enhanced by its
curved brass frame. The cover’s center is adorned with a magnificent, brass,
double-headed Austrian Eagle, measuring 2 3/4" x 3." The sides of the box that
flank the lid appear to be made of silver. They certainly look like silver. On
those two sides we see an ornate montage of swords, horns, cannons, and cannon
balls. The box’s reverse and its bottom are covered by luxurious, hand tooled,
red Moroccan leather. Opening the cartridge box, we see the red Moroccan
leather continues on the inside surfaces. All of the exterior attachments and
tabs are present. The cartridge box has seen little or no use, which is
consistent with the other ensemble pieces. This is a delightful and
beautifully crafted piece, in top condition.
Deluxe Storage Case for all items
The final part of this presentation is the storage case that has housed all
of these items for some ninety years. I have NEVER seen a case quite like
this. I have seen special storage cases for general’s helmets and
accouterments from Imperial Germany, but never one so large and extensive as
this. It was intended to house many pieces of regalia that Duke Robert of
Württemberg may have once owned and worn on the few occasions when he was
garbed as an Austrian general. The case’s interior had plenty of space to
house much more than the three items we described above.
The case
’s shape basically conforms to what would be required to hold the fore
and aft cap. The case measures 14" x 9 1/2" x 11 1/2." When fully loaded, the case weighs
10 lbs., and10 ounces. The case’s
exterior is covered with a beige canvas-like material. It features many straps
and buckles (all of which are present) and a central lock. I am very pleased
to say that the key for this lock hangs on a string right beside the lock. Too
often the key is the first thing to disappear. This time, however, it is safe
with the case.
The case opens in a most interesting manner. The entire front folds down. This
allows access to the compartment where the fore and aft cap is housed. When
folded down, the lid has three horizontal storage areas and two vertical. One
can only imagine what else may have been stored in the case at some point,
aside from the fore and aft cap, the sash/belt, and the cartridge box. I would
certainly not be surprised if his shoulder boards and/or epaulettes were
stored in it. The case’s lining is a very handsome red silk.
The case in itself is a major prize. I have spent time fiddling with it and
admiring the ingenuity of the manufacturer. Somebody clearly took time
designing this case before they lifted the first tool to actually make it!
In conclusion we are very pleased to offer this very rare grouping of items to
you today. When it was first shown to me, I was entranced just by the storage
case. I had to hold my breath when the case was opened and its contents
revealed. Items from Germany’s royalty are never easy to acquire. Do not
forget the complimentary miniature general’s fore and aft cap that we will
include with the grouping for your further enjoyment. Although it is not
original to the group, it will add a little zest to your enjoyment. This was a
real "catch" for us. We hope that you enjoy looking at it as much as we have
had presenting it to you.
$9,995.00
(Click here for more images)
Austria
Items Relating to Archduke Eugen
WW I Decorations to Archduke Eugen of Austria
This week we are offering you a special selection of German
decorations from World War I that once belonged to Archduke Eugen of Austria.
As was common during the period, decorations were shared among the various
German states and their allies who were members of the Central Powers. The
decorations that are listed below were all the property of Archduke Eugen
Ferdinand Pius Bernhard Felix Maria of Austria-Teschen (1863-1954). He began
his military career in 1877. During his early military career he served in the
Tyrolean Kaiserjäger-Regiment and in a Husaren-Regiment.
After a rigid military education, he was posted to the Austrian General staff.
Then he was posted to Infanterie-Regiment Nr 13, first as a Battalion
Commander, and then as the Regimental Commander. From this, he was promoted to
a Brigade, and later, Division Commander. In 1900, he was promoted to General
der Kavallerie (equal to a U.S. Lieutenant General) of the Austrian XIV.
ArmeeKorps. Some say that Archduke Franz Ferdinand was increasingly
jealous of him. He retired from the army in 1911, at the age of forty-eight.
After the assassination of Franz Ferdinand in 1914 and the beginning of WW I,
Eugen returned to the army. He was in command of the 5. Armee. In May
1915, he was promoted to Generaloberst and commanded all troops from the Swiss
boarder to the Adriatic. In March 1916, he was officially placed in charge of
an Armeegruppe known as Herresgruppen-Kommando Erzherzog Eugen.
In the Spring of 1916, he assumed command of the 3. Armee and 11.
Armee. He was promoted to Generalfeldmarschall in November 1916. [Please
remember that the rank of Generalfeldmarschall in both the German and Austrian
Armies were not given out lightly or in any great numbers. In the Austrian
army a total of eight GFM’s were created during WW I. Four of these were pure
military commanders who were of noble birth, three were royals who commanded
troops in the field, and the eighth was the head of the Austrian General
Staff. By comparison, the German Army had eight GFM’s of noble birth who were
true military commanders, three of royal birth who were military commanders in
the field, four kings, and a Sultan who were made GFM’s].
Archduke Eugen was released from active duty in December 1917 at the behest of
Kaiser Karl. After the armistice with Russia, less territory was in need of
military commanders on the Western Front. He lived a quiet life after WW I,
spending a great deal of time in Switzerland. He died in Austria at the age of
ninety-one, a very popular man. During WW I he received more than seven
high-level Austrian decorations. He also received more than twenty decorations
from Austria’s allies. Among them was the Orden Pour le Mérite in 1916, and
the Orden Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves in 1917.
What we offer individually today are several of his CASED German decorations
from World War I. They are from the various German states that were Austria’s
allies. What makes each of them so interesting is that all of the cased
decorations come from Austrian firms, most notably Roethe & Neffe.
Also, where ribbons are attached to the decorations, they are in the Austrian
trifold style.
Although we will sell each of these individually, we will also offer a
substantial discount should one person take them all. We will also offer an
appealing discount for the purchase of multiple decorations. Each will come
with a detailed biography of Archduke Eugen.
Every purchase of a cased decoration will be shipped with a high-quality copy
of period postcard and the previously-mentioned biography, as well as a copy of
this historical description. Our descriptions follow. Enjoy!
08-436 FRIEDRICH AUGUST CROSS 1st - 2nd
CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - GRAND DUCHY OF OLDENBURG - AWARDED -
AUSTRIA’S ARCHDUKE EUGEN. These are the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg’s
Friedrich August Crosses in the 1st and 2nd Class. They
were Archduke Eugen (1863-1954) of Austria’s personal property. Both of these
decorations were awarded to him on 15 March 1916. They come in a deluxe
red leatherette case (its bottom is actually black). The case measures 6 1/4" x
2 3/4"
x 3/4." The words "Oldenburg Kriegs Kreuz I. u. II. Classe" are embossed
in gold on the outer lid. Inside the case the 1st Class Friedrich
August Cross appears in a fitted space at the bottom, with the 2nd
Class Cross above it. The 2nd Class is complete with a correct red
and blue ribbon in the Austrian trifold style. The upper lid clearly states
that they come from Rothe & Neffe in Vienna, the Austrian Kaiser’s
house jewelers. Both case and decorations are in superb condition. They also
are very important historically.
$3,495.00
(Click here for more images)
08-437 HANSEATIC CROSSES - FREE STATES - HAMBURG, LÜBECK,
AND BREMEN - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - AWARDED - AUSTRIA’S ARCHDUKE EUGEN.
Here are THREE Hanseatic Crosses from the Free States of Hamburg, Lübeck, and
Bremen in the original presentation case. They were Archduke Eugen (1863-1954)
of Austria’s personal property. The presentation case measures 4" x 7 1/2" x
1."
The words "Hanseaten Kreuze Bremen, Hamburg, and Lübeck" are embossed
in gold on the outer lid. (My research does not show when these decorations
were awarded). Opening the case, the three crosses are lined up from left to
right: Bremen, Hamburg, and Lübeck. Each is in a fitted section that
accommodates the cross and its trifold ribbon. That said, only the Lübeck
cross has a ribbon attached. It has a very interesting feature. Attached on
the upper white silk lid above each decoration is the correct ribbon.
While the name
Rothe & Neffe does NOT appear on the case’s upper lid,
all its features are identical to that of the Roethe & Neffe Oldenburg
Friedrich August Crosses case. It has an all-red leatherette exterior, with
the exception of the black bottom. It is a very handsome set of three
decorations. $3,495.00
(Click here for more images)
08-438 SAXE-MEININGEN 1914/1915 WAR SERVICE DECORATION WITH
CROWN - AWARDED - ARCHDUKE EUGEN - AUSTRIA. This
is the Duchy of Saxe-Meiningen’s War Service Decoration 1914/1915 with Swords
in the original presentation case. It was Archduke Eugen (1863-1954) of
Austria’s personal property. The presentation case measures 4 3/4" x 2
1/2" x 3/4."
Embossed in gold on the outer lid is "Herzog Sachsen Meiningen Kriegskreuz."
(My research does not show when this decoration was awarded). Upon opening the
case, the crowned circular decoration is revealed, mounted on a yellow, black,
green, and white trifold ribbon.
While the name Rothe & Neffe does NOT appear on the case’s upper lid,
all its features are identical to that of the Roethe & Neffe Oldenburg
Friedrich August Cross’s case. It has an all-red leatherette exterior, with
the exception of the black bottom. It is a very fine decoration in excellent
condition. $1,350.00
(Click here for more images)
08-439 BRAUNSCHWEIG WAR SERVICE CROSS 2nd CLASS
- AWARDED - ARCHDUKE EUGEN - AUSTRIA. This is
the Duchy of Braunschweig’s War Service Cross 2nd Class the
original presentation case. It was Archduke Eugen (1863-1954) of Austria’s
personal property. The presentation case measures 4 1/4" x 2 1/2" x
3/4." Embossed in
gold on the outer lid is "Braunschweig Kriegsverdienstkreuz." (My
research does not show when this decoration was awarded). Upon opening the
case, the cross is revealed mounted on a yellow and blue trifold ribbon. A
stretched piece of the correct blue and yellow ribbon appears on the case’s
inner lid.
While the name Rothe & Neffe does NOT appear on the case’s upper lid,
all its features are identical to that of the Roethe & Neffe Oldenburg
Friedrich August Cross’s case. It has an all-red leatherette exterior, with
the exception of the black bottom. It is a very fine decoration, in excellent
condition. $1,350.00
(Click here for more images)
08-440 ANHALT FRIEDRICH CROSS 2nd CLASS -
AWARDED - ARCHDUKE EUGEN - AUSTRIA. This is the
Duchy of Anhalt’s Friedrich Cross 2nd Class in the original
presentation case. It was Archduke Eugen (1863-1954) of Austria’s personal
property. The presentation case measures 4 3/4" x 2 1/2" x 3/4." Embossed in gold on the
outer lid is "Hrz. Anhaltisches Friedrich Kreuz." (My research does not
show when this decoration was awarded). Upon opening the case, the cross is
revealed mounted on a green and magenta trifold ribbon. A stretched piece of
the correct green and magenta ribbon appears on the case’s inner lid.
While the name
Rothe & Neffe does NOT appear on the case’s upper lid,
all its features are identical to that of the Roethe & Neffe Oldenburg
Friedrich August Cross’s case. It has an all-red leatherette exterior, with
the exception of the black bottom. It is a very fine decoration, in excellent
condition. $1,350.00
(Click here for more images)
08-441 LIPPE-DETMOLD CROSS - TRUE SERVICE 2nd
CLASS - AWARDED - ARCHDUKE EUGEN - AUSTRIA. This
is the Principality of Lippe-Detmold’s Cross for True Service 2nd
Class in the original presentation case. It was Archduke Eugen (1863-1954) of
Austria’s personal property. The presentation case measures 5 1/4" x 2
1/2" x 3/4."
Embossed in gold on the outer lid is "Fürstl.
Schaumburg-Lippe’sches Kreuz für Treue Dienste 1914."
(My research does not show when this decoration was
awarded). Upon opening the case, the cross is revealed. It is NOT mounted on
its white and blue trifold ribbon. A stretched piece of the correct blue and
white ribbon appears on the case’s inner lid.
The name of Rothe & Neffe,
the Austrian Kaiser’s official court
jeweler, appears on the upper lid. It is a very fine decoration, in excellent
condition.$1,350.00
(Click here for more images)
08-442 MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 2nd
CLASS - AWARDED - ARCHDUKE EUGEN - AUSTRIA. This
is the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin’s 1914 Military Service Cross 2nd
Class in the original presentation case. It was Archduke Eugen (1863-1954) of
Austria’s personal property. The presentation case measures 4 1/4" x 2
1/2" x 3/4."
Embossed in gold on the outer lid is "Mecklenburg-Schwerin Militärverdienstkreuz
II. Kl." (My research does not show when this
decoration was awarded). Upon opening the case, the cross is revealed mounted
on a yellow, blue, and red trifold ribbon. A stretched piece of the correct
yellow, blue, and red ribbon appears on the case’s inner lid.
While the name
Rothe & Neffe does NOT appear on the case’s upper lid,
all its features are identical to that of the Roethe & Neffe Oldenburg
Friedrich August Cross’s case. It has an all-red leatherette exterior, with
the exception of the black bottom. It is a very fine decoration in excellent
condition. $1,350.00
(Click here for more images)
Items Relating to Archduke Franz
Carl
20-228 DELUXE PROMOTION PATENT - FELDMARSCHALLLIEUTENANT RANK -
ERZHERZOG FRANZ CARL - AUSTRIA - SPECIAL FITTE
D PRESENTATION CASE.
If you ever thought the Germans produced ornate documents, wait until you
see how the Austrians’ work! This week we are presenting a document that is,
without a doubt, the most ornate and elaborate we have ever offered.
The document is a promotion patent for Erzherzog Franz Carl of
Austria (1802-1878). He was a son of Franz I (1768-1835), who served as
Austria’s emperor until his death in 1835. At that point he (Franz I) was
replaced as emperor by his eldest son, Ferdinand (1793-1875). Franz Carl was
Emperor Ferdinand’s younger brother. Ferdinand abdicated during the 1848
revolts in Austria. In the normal course of events, he would have been
replaced by Franz Carl. Ferdinand had suffered from poor health (seizures),
and historically often been portrayed as feeble-minded (which is debatable).
Franz Carl was convinced to lay aside his claim to the throne in favor of
his eldest son, Franz Joseph I (1830-1916). Franz Joseph served as Emperor
of Austria from 1848 until his death in 1916. Erzherzog Franz Carl had yet another famous son who became an e emperor.
He was none other than Maximilian, Emperor of Mexico (1832-1867)! Franz Carl
was also the grandfather ofArchduke Franz Ferdinand (1863-1914), Emperor
Franz Joseph’s intended heir, whose 1914 assassination in Sarajevo led to WW
I.
Franz Carl was not a major player in the Austrian government, although he
did serve on the Council that actually ruled Austria from 1835-1848. Franz
Carl’s military career was not particularly distinguished, either. He had
served as a Generalmajor and Inhaber (honorary commander or oberst) of Infanterie-
Regiment Nr 52. It was in fact a Hungarian regiment. In 1844,
he was promoted to the rank of Feldmarschallieutenant. This last, my dear
readers, is the purpose of our document. Please remember that the document
was issued in September 1844. It is about 165-years-old!!!
Prussian promotion patents are decorative, but nowhere near as ornate or
impressive as this document. The document is prepared on vellum. As it is a
true vellum (in the late 1800's, artificial vellum first came into use), it
was made from the leather skin of a cow, goat, etc. Vellum is also referred
to as parchment. The feel and quality of the paper are amazing. It is crisp
and exquisite. The document was folded into six sections. When it is fully
extended, it measures 22" x 30 1/2." The calligraphy is nothing short of
amazing. The document begins with a length description of the titles and
rights of Kaiser Ferdinand. Then the date and the name of Archduke Franz
Carl appear, as well as his association with Infanterie-Regiment Nr 52
and that he had previously held the rank of Generalmajor. The document is
boldly signed by the Kaiser.
Attached to the document by a gold bullion cord is a circular, cased
canister made of very high-quality brass with a high-gloss finish. The
canister measures 3 3/4" in diameter and is 3/4" thick. One side displays a
beautiful, double-headed Austrian Eagle topped by a Hapsburg Crown. The
canister's other side features a fine military motif of flags, cannon,
rifles, swords, and a küraß. The canister opens. Inside is an
intact, mint-condition, red wax seal with Kaiser Ferdinand of
Austria-Hungary’s Coat-of-Arms.
The document and canister set is housed in a deluxe fitted case. It has a
cutout space for the document and another space to house
the canister. The
presentation case’s upper lid (measuring 11 1/2" x 16 3/4" x 2 1/2") is
lined with sumptuous black silk. The case’s lower, fitted, half is lined in
black velvet. The case’s exterior is made of hand tooled red Moroccan
leather. The upper lid displays an ornate gold-embossed design. The exterior
shows some signs of wear, with some scuffing and limited areas where the
leather is patchy. Twin latches secure the case. Some evidence remains of a
lock but, alas, no key. The side of the case has a paper tag which appears
to be from a museum. The tag measures 1 3/4" x 4." It has what I believe is
an old control number, along with a typed description on the card.
This is a fantastic set. It is the ultimate document attributed from and to
royalty of more than 165-years-ago.
$13,995.00
(Click here for more images)
20-236
ROYAL SEAL - HOUSE OF HAPSBURG - USED ON ADELSBRIEF. In both Germany and
Austria, the Adelsbrief was an important document that extended knighthood
and nobility to men who had previously been well-respected commoners. They
could have been men in the military, government service, men of commerce, or
public renown. The documents were often presented in deluxe boxes. The
book-like document contained the text and circumstances of the knighthood,
including its date and the ruler’s signature. A special coat-of-arms that
had been created for the family was included within the document, and
remained theirs ever after. A metal cannister containing the ruler’s seal
was usually attached to the book. In this case, the cannister was attached
to an Austrian Adelsbrief (which was removed at some point) and thereby the
now unknown person was elevated to knighthood. The cannister measures 3 3/4”
in diameter and is 1 1/4” thick. It is a two-piece device that opens to
reveal its contents. The canister’s basic material is silver-toned. Attached
to the top is a brass rendition of the Hapsburg Coat-of-Arms. It clearly
displays the House of Hapsburg’s two-headed eagle, which was used by Kaiser
Franz Josef and his predecessors. Extending from the cannister are four
small sashes made of red, black, gold, and silver bullion. When one removes
the cannister’s upper half, the House of Hapsburg’s red wax seal is
revealed, displaying the royal family’s coat-of-arms. The wax seal is
completely intact and in excellent condition. I cannot accurately date this.
I feel quite confident that it comes from the 19th Century, however, and is
more than one-hundred-years-old.
$2,195.00
(Click here for more images)
Miscellaneous Items to
Persons of Royalty and Nobility
20-222 HERZOG FRIEDRICH ERNST - JEWELRY BOX -
SAXE-MEININGEN.
This is a jewelry box was
once the Duchy of Saxe-Meiningen’s Herzog (Duke) Friedrich Ernst’s
personal property, or it was a gift given BY him to a favored person. The box
measures 3 1/4" x 5" x 2." It stands on four balled feet. It boasts a brilliant,
polished-brass exterior. The box’s left side displays Saxe-Meiningen’s
Coat-of-Arms. The crown in the Coat-of-Arms sports burgundy velvet within its
cutout sections. Elsewhere within the shield’s cutout areas one can see black
velvet. To the Coat-of-Arms’ right is Friedrich Ernst’s royal cypher. The
lid’s lower right corner displays "SM" for Saxe-Meiningen. The
lid’s edges are encircled by an elegant, rope-like trim.
The box’s interior is lined in burgundy velvet. The box’s lower half features
two separate compartments. The upper compartment measures 1 1/4" x 4 1/2." It is
provided to hold rings in an upright manner. Below that area is a second,
measuring 1 3/4" x 4 1/2." This area would have held the owner’s cuff links, tie
tacks, etc. (if he were male), or bracelets and earrings (if the Duke had
given it to a female, although this is less likely).
$1,995.00
(Click here for more images)
15-32 ALBUM BELONGING TO
THE GREAT - AUNT OF MANFRED VON RICHTHOFEN.
Clara von Richthofen was the paternal great-aunt of
Rittmeister Manfred von Richthofen. She was the sister of
Julius Georg Ludwig, the father of Albrecht von Richthofen,
who was the father of Manfred and Lothar von Richthofen.
Clara was born in 1829 and died in Berlin 1909. This album
which was presented to her in 1845 by a favorite uncle (a von
Berenhorst). There are numerous entries mostly from the
1840's and 1850's. There is at least one item as late as the
1870's. She married Guido von Busse in 1850, and although
they were married for 38 years, she had no children; which is
why this album would have passed down into the Red
Baron’s family. This very high quality album, in which
Clara made entries for many years, is the journal and art
album of a young Prussian noblewoman starting at the age of
sixteen. On the opposite page from the dedication by her
Uncle is her autograph, "Clara von Richthofen." As
the album develops we see the art and writings of a romantic
young woman. There are lithographs (colored and black and
white) of places that she visited and people that she
admired. Many of these images have captions which due to
their age are somewhat faded. There are several poems
sprinkled through the album. As you go through the album
there are also several examples of pressed flowers and leaves
which are surprisingly nice for being one hundred and fifty
years old. There are also at least two concert programs from
concerts which she attended in the 1850's and 1870's. There
are also several original sketches done by Clara and while I
am far from an art expert, she seemed quite talented to me.
Many of these sketches are in pencil but there is one that
she sketched and then colored. Speaking of colored sketches
there that she did of an "Uncle Richthofen" that is
quite spirited and the old gentleman has a very prominent
nose. The album has fifty-seven pages of information in it
and it is an excellent study of a young Prussian noblewoman
of the mid 19th
Century. Overall it is in surprisingly good condition. $1,595.00
(Click here for more
images)
20-69 SILVER NAPKIN RING
TO A GRAFEN. This very fine napkin
ring was once used as a part of the table settings of Grafen
von Bodin of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. This is of prewar quality
and bears the cypher "B" with a crown over it. The
napkin ring is silver hallmarked for .800 silver and for
manufacturer. While I have not done extensive research on
this small fact, the Grafen was apparently a functionary at
the court of the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. $295.00
(Click here for more images)
20-187
DINNER PLATE - PERSONAL SERVICE - KÖNING
GEORG - SAXONY.
This is a simply gorgeous example of a dinner plate from
the personal service of Saxony’s König Georg (1832-1904). Georg served as the
Kronprinz under his brother König Albert. Georg held the throne of Saxony from
1902 until his death in 1904. The dinner plate measures 9 1/5" in diameter.
The plate features a scalloped trim on its edge. Red and gold trim goes around
its edges and further in toward its center. His crowned royal cypher sits at
the plate’s top. The plate’s reverse carries
hallmarking for the noted firm Meissen.
$695.00CW
(Click here for more images)
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